Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran, has expressed strong concerns regarding the high rates of abuse, early pregnancies, and educational disparities affecting girls in Fiji. During a Ministerial Statement in Parliament, Kiran emphasized the human impact of these issues, noting that they represent real lives rather than just statistics.
Her comments coincided with the recognition of the International Day of the Girl Child for the first time this year by her ministry, reinforcing the importance of acknowledging and supporting the contributions of girls to Fiji’s society. Kiran highlighted that girls are not only part of Fiji’s current community but also essential for its future development.
Disturbing data from the Ministry of Health revealed that in the first half of 2024 alone, eight girls under 15 became mothers, while there were 481 births among those aged 15 to 19, resulting in over 850 teenage pregnancies. Further analysis of data from 2020 to 2024 indicated that 7,283 crimes were reported against children, with 70 percent of victims being female, predominantly affected by sexual offenses such as rape and defilement.
Kiran lamented that many girls are deprived of educational opportunities and are instead facing the challenges of motherhood. She called attention to the urgent need for social reform, particularly since the Western and Southern Divisions and rural areas are experiencing heightened rates of child abuse, including increasing technology-facilitated violence.
Another pressing issue Kiran addressed was the alarmingly high school dropout rates among girls, particularly in rural areas, where almost 40 percent leave school between Year 8 and Year 12, which is double the national average. She pointed out that the consequences of dropping out can be profound, leading to lower income prospects and poorer health outcomes in the long run.
In light of these serious challenges, community leaders are advocating for ongoing awareness campaigns, the distribution of educational resources in local languages, and leadership programs for girls. They also emphasize the need for better collaboration among schools, police, and health services. In response, the Ministry is working with the Ministry of Education to establish the International Day of the Girl Child as an ongoing event in Fiji’s academic calendar.
Kiran reiterated that no child should live in fear of abuse and stressed the importance of ensuring that every girl in Fiji is protected and given the chance to reach her full potential. Her passionate remarks serve as a vital call to action, urging society to confront these critical issues and create a nurturing environment where children can flourish free from violence and fear. This proactive stance towards addressing the challenges faced by girls raises hope for a more supportive future in Fiji.