Mobile phones have increasingly become an integral part of daily life in Fiji, impacting school routines, social interactions, and learning experiences, as highlighted by information technology expert Mohammed Nafeez. He noted that educators are harnessing communication platforms like WhatsApp, Viber, and Facebook Messenger to share updates and homework with parents, reflecting a shift towards digital engagement in educational systems.
Mr. Nafeez pointed out that while these technologies facilitate communication, the challenge lies not in the devices themselves but in the duration and nature of their use by children. Parents are expressing growing concerns about their children’s online habits, which include late-night screen time, exposure to inappropriate content, and a decline in physical outdoor activity. This concern is compounded by children mimicking negative behaviors they witness online, contributing to issues such as anger and withdrawal when devices are removed.
The narrative of modern parenting has become increasingly complex, as many parents feel pressured to acquiesce to their children’s demands for screens, often as a means to manage their own responsibilities. Mr. Nafeez emphasized that parenting in the digital age is challenging, particularly when it comes to establishing boundaries with technology that seems endlessly engaging.
Health experts have raised alarms about the adverse effects of excessive screen time on children’s sleep patterns, eyesight, posture, mental health, and social skills. Particularly in Fiji, where childhood obesity and related health issues are on the rise, reduced physical activity due to screen addiction is accelerating the problem.
Rather than advocating for a complete ban on technology, Mr. Nafeez insists it is crucial for families to focus on fostering healthy habits around screen use. He acknowledged that screens will remain a fixture in modern households, suggesting they should complement family life rather than substitute it.
He reassured parents that they are not alone in their struggles with screen time regulation; numerous others are facing the same challenges. The key lies in consistency rather than perfection in nurturing family connections, which he suggests are ultimately more important than any digital link.
In many Fijian homes, the role of screens has evolved from mere entertainment to a significant element that disrupts traditional family interactions. Communicating that many families contend with similar difficulties, Mr. Nafeez described how screens have replaced valuable family time, making household routines feel disconnected.
Research indicates that children spend a glaring amount of time—between four to seven hours daily—on screens, leading to detrimental effects on their concentration and social behavior. Reports from teachers suggest that students often arrive at school tired and disengaged, reflecting a concerning trend that spans urban and rural areas alike.
Mr. Nafeez’s insights highlight a critical issue faced by families in Fiji as they navigate the balance between embracing technology and maintaining genuine human connections, advocating for an approach that emphasizes healthy screen time management to support children’s well-being. This perspective offers hope that, with intentional efforts, families can reclaim quality time together while coexisting with the digital landscape.