Residents of Tavua are advocating for the reinstatement of corporal punishment as a disciplinary method, citing its potential to combat the increasing influence of drugs in their communities. This proposal emerged during a public consultation on the Counter Narcotics Bill held at Tavualevu Village on February 13. Sanivalati Nasau articulated this view on behalf of Nabuna Village, making a formal request for the reintroduction of corporal punishment in schools, villages, and families.
Nasau emphasized that allowing corporal punishment could empower authority figures, particularly teachers, in managing discipline effectively. His perspective reflects a growing sentiment among some community members who see this measure as a useful tool against the backdrop of rising drug-related issues.
Consultation team member Biu Matavou responded to the suggestion by noting that this viewpoint is not isolated to Tavua; similar opinions have surfaced in various regions throughout the country during other public consultations organized by government entities. Matavou specifically mentioned that the subcommittee for education has also encountered comparable calls for the inclusion of corporal punishment in the Education Act.
While the topic of corporal punishment remains contentious and heavily debated on a national level, the consultation team clarified that this recommendation is being evaluated with a focus on drug prevention measures, indicating an effort to address a pressing community concern. They acknowledged the input regarding corporal punishment being applied strictly to individuals found with drugs, indicating a targeted approach rather than a broad application of the practice.
This discourse highlights the community’s quest for effective solutions to mitigate drug problems, reflecting their desire for a more secure environment for their youth. The ongoing dialogue between residents, authorities, and educational bodies could lead to thoughtful considerations and potentially effective policies aimed at curbing the drug crisis in Tavua and beyond.