SUVA, May 16 (Xinhua) -- Serious concerns have been raised in Fiji in regards to the impact of drugs in the island nation.
Acting Chief Executive Officer for Substance Abuse Advisory Council Josua Naisele said Thursday that drug abuse cases in schools have been increasing for the past three years, with 2,200 drug cases recorded in 2021, 2,800 cases in 2022 and 3,500 cases last year.
While addressing the Fiji National University, Naisele said the students start off with smoking and consuming alcohol and grog and later on get involved in drugs, reported Fiji Broadcasting Corporation.
The acting CEO said some students do drugs because of their peers, some use it as a coping technique while others are victims or survivors of child abuse, sexual abuse and neglect.
He said counselling is a way of encouraging students to promote self-discipline and mental well-being, addressing the rising drug problem.
Minister for Home Affairs Pio Tikoduadua said drug abuse is a problem second only to climate change in Fiji. ■
