Students across Fiji are expected to benefit from new educational materials aimed at raising awareness about HIV prevention, drug abuse and healthy lifestyle choices.
The materials were launched by Assistant Minister for Health and Medical Services Penioni Ravunawa at Delainamasi Government School under the "Na Bula E Dua: Empowering Students with HIV and Drug Use Information Project".
Speaking during the launch, Ravunawa revealed that Fiji recorded 2,016 new HIV cases in 2025, a 27 percent increase from the previous year, with many infections involving people aged between 15 and 34.
Ravunawa says research continues to show a strong link between unsafe injecting drug use and the spread of HIV.
He also revealed that 117 people, including children, died from HIV-related causes last year.
The Assistant Minister is urging students to avoid peer pressure and focus on their education, sports, faith and healthy living.
He says addressing drug abuse and HIV requires support from parents, schools, communities, faith-based organisations and government agencies.
Meanwhile, Medical Services Pacific says the project is supported by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and aims to provide students, teachers and parents with accurate information on HIV prevention, drug awareness and healthy life choices.
The launch was held as part of International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking Week celebrations.
