STUDENTS in Fiji are increasingly disengaging from long-form reading, prompting educators and health advocates to rethink how critical information is delivered in schools.
Medical Services Pacific (MSP) project lead Christine Nikola says recent surveys by MSP on HIV awareness among students revealed a clear shift in how young people consume information, favouring short, engaging and visually appealing content over lengthy materials.
She said schools have responded positively to more creative information, education and communication (IEC) resources, noting that students are more receptive when messages are “short, catchy and effective”.
“To adapt, MSP has introduced communication strategies that rely heavily on art, concise messaging and relatable campaigns such as “Na Bula E Dua,” Ms Nikola said.
“And this is resonating well with students.”
Beyond engagement, she stressed the urgency of addressing deeper issues, particularly the link between Fiji’s growing drug crisis and the spread of HIV, describing HIV as a “hidden intruder” emerging from substance abuse trends.
“There is widespread misconceptions among students, including the belief that an HIV diagnosis is a death sentence.
“Which it’s not.”
She said while general messaging exists in the media, there is a gap in content tailored to key populations, especially young people, who are increasingly at risk.
“There are so many generalised messages, but not enough that speak directly to young people.
“So while broader topics like puberty and mental health are covered in schools, MSP’s focus is specifically on HIV and associated risky behaviours.”
Ms Nikola warned that engaging in one risky behaviour often leads to others, increasing vulnerability among youths.
