Acting Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Siromi Turaga, has urged the people of Lomaiviti to work closely with the government and religious organisations to address the pressing national issues of HIV, drug abuse, violence, education, and rape.
Speaking during the opening of the Lomaiviti Provincial Council meeting at Epworth Hall in Suva, Turaga stresses the need for collective responsibility in confronting the challenges faced by the province and the nation.
He acknowledged the recent installation of the Tui Nayau, Sau ni Vanua ko Lau and Tui Lau, as well as other traditional leadership appointments across the country, highlighting the importance of strong Vanua leadership in driving change.
Turaga says the Vanua, in partnership with churches and government, must take an active role in guiding young people and protecting them from harmful influences.
He highlighted a key concern discussed during the council meeting, and that is the need to better support the youth of Lomaiviti.
He reveals that 124 children between the ages of 5 and 18 have left school, many simply because they no longer want to attend.
Turaga urges community leaders to recognise that not all youth thrive academically, but many have the potential to excel in practical skills and vocational pathways.
He encourages inclusive solutions that address individual needs and give every young person a chance to succeed.
The Lomaiviti Provincial Council meeting continues today and concludes tomorrow in Suva.
