The cases that are criminal in nature are reported to the Police from which they will take the allegations through its system and processes, and we know there have been cases where children are used by youths for peddling drugs in schools.
Acting Permanent Secretary of Education, Timoci Bure highlighted this when questioned by fijivillage News in relation to the 3 students allegedly found with illicit substances on school premises last week, and on what is being done to identify and take action against the source and dealers of the drugs in schools.
Bure says parents need to continuously discuss with their children the harmful effects of using illicit drugs and the consequences it will have on them if they are found in possession.
He further says the students are aware through the school rules and also through the Substance Abuse Advisory Council Policy of the dangers and harmful effect of drugs as well the consequences if they are found in possession of illicit drugs.
The Acting Permanent Secretary further says the Ministry of Education has conducted awareness in schools and with parents through PTA platforms and Community Awareness programs.
He says the curriculum also addresses the same in different aspects of subject areas taught in schools.
Bure further says parents are informed if their child/ward is suspected to be in possession of illicit drugs.
He says the child or ward is also counseled for several sessions until a decision is made, whether he or she should continue in the same school or will need a change of learning environment.
