A robust approach is essential to tackling the narcotics crisis facing the nation, and this was strongly emphasized by Tavua Town Council’s special administrator, Rajendra Raghlu, during a recent consultation on the Counter Narcotics Bill at the Tavualevu Village hall. Raghlu advocated for mandatory educational programs within schools and enhanced community dialogue as pivotal tools in addressing the issue.
Highlighting the need to distinguish between drug traffickers and individuals struggling with addiction, Mr. Raghlu called for an expansive outreach in narcotics education. He suggested that such education should not merely be trialed in pilot programs but integrated into the nationwide school curriculum. “Rather than piloting, I think we should bring it to make it compulsory in every school,” he stated, underscoring the necessity for early intervention through educational initiatives.
As part of his comprehensive vision, Raghlu seeks to extend narcotics education to every corner of Fiji, regardless of whether it is urban or rural, believing that such initiatives will be fundamental in curbing the rise of drug-related issues. He also advocated for greater community engagement, proposing that village meetings actively incorporate the voices of young people to explore and understand the motivations behind their drug use.
Raghlu pointed out that even young individuals from supportive family backgrounds may still encounter addiction, implying that emotional neglect or family challenges might play a role in their decisions. While acknowledging the complexities surrounding law enforcement’s role in addressing drug-related matters, he remained optimistic that collective action could lead to effective solutions.
His forward-thinking perspective reflects a commitment to empowering youth through education and nurturing community support, fostering dialogue that could reveal the deeper issues related to drug use. This initiative not only aims to prevent addiction but also aspires to cultivate healthier communities.