No meth cases reported in schools: Radrodro

Fiji's Ministry of Education has reported that drug-related incidents in primary and secondary schools remain below two percent of the student population over the last three years. The data indicates a fluctuating trend, with 3,627 students recorded in 2023, a decrease to 3,041 in 2024, and a slight rise to 3,143 last year.

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He stresses there have been no reported cases of methamphetamine use in schools.

Education Minister Aseri Radrodro provided the figures, detailing that the reported cases involved substances such as "suki" (likely referring to chewing tobacco or betel nut), cigarettes, vaping products, alcohol, inhalant glue, and marijuana. Notably, there have been no reported instances of methamphetamine use within schools. The minister stressed that the figures reflect reported cases, not necessarily the prevalence of drug use.

The ministry suggests that the establishment of Counselling Hubs in several secondary schools between 2023 and 2025 may have contributed to an increase in reported cases in some instances. These hubs, along with school counselors and Child Protection Officers, are now the primary channels for formally reporting incidents. This contrasts with previous years when cases were often referred to the Substance Abuse Advisory Council.

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The Ministry attributes the increase in reported cases, in some instances, to the establishment of Counselling Hubs between 2023 and 2025 at Natabua High School, Labasa College, Levuka Public School, and Nasinu Secondary School.

To address drug-related issues, the ministry has implemented strengthened intervention and prevention programs. These include psychosocial support, counseling, and mentoring for affected students. Schools are guided by comprehensive policies on drugs, child protection, behavior management, and counseling. The ministry also collaborates with parents, law enforcement, health authorities, child welfare agencies, and community organizations to tackle these challenges through preventive education and awareness campaigns.

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The Ministry says it works with parents, the Fiji Police Force, health authorities, the Child Welfare Unit, communities, faith-based organisations and other partners to address drug-related issues.