While celebrating International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, Nasinu Muslim Primary School Head Girl, Ulamila Ratutokarua, is reminding students about the effects of drugs and how they can destroy lives.
Ratutokarua says it is time that we understand the consequences of our actions and the impact of drugs on the people around us.
She says most drugs are used to treat medical conditions and are prescribed by a doctor, but some, like marijuana, cocaine, and methamphetamine, are illegal.
The 13-year-old says these illegal drugs can have devastating effects on our health, future, and relationships.
She says these substances can alter our brain chemistry, leading to addiction, mental health issues, and even death.
Ratutokarua says according to statistics released by the Fiji Police Force, methamphetamine cases have increased from 2 in 2013 to 113 cases in 2018 alone.
She also reminded the students and teachers that Fiji is now used as a transit point for drug trafficking between Asian countries and Mexico.
She adds that we need to surround ourselves with positive influences and friends who respect our choices and support our goals, which will help us stay on track.
The theme for this year is "Be Responsible, Make the Right Choice, and Stay Away from Drugs."
Meanwhile, five schools participated in the Central Oratory Contest today at St. Joseph the Worker Primary School where Nasinu Muslim Primary School came first, Wainibuku Hart Primary School came second, with Bhawani Dayal Memorial Primary School in third.
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