A Year 8 student of Korovuto Primary School is calling for stronger action against drug dealers targeting young people, while stressing that education, rehabilitation and family support are equally important in protecting children from drugs.
Speaking during a consultation on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026, Krystal Kumar questioned whether the Government is doing enough to prevent illegal drugs from reaching schools and communities.
Kumar also raised concerns about whether children are being properly educated about the dangers of drugs before they face pressure to try them.
She says fighting drugs requires more than punishment, stressing the need for early prevention, counselling, rehabilitation and effective law enforcement.
The 14-year-old believes young people who make mistakes should not automatically be treated as having no future, but should instead receive guidance and support to make better choices.
The student also called for schools to provide safe learning environments, while families and communities should support young people through sports, education, cultural activities and youth programmes.
Kumar has urged the Joint Committee to carefully consider how the proposed constitutional changes could affect the rights, safety and future of children.
She says any changes to the Constitution should be clearly explained to the public, with young people also given an opportunity to share their views.
The student stressed that although they are only in Year 8, age should not prevent young people from speaking up on issues affecting their future.
Kumar also says protecting children from drugs is a shared responsibility involving the Government, schools, families and communities.
