Youths can be agents of behavioural changes - Fiji Red Cross Director General

Young volunteers gathered today for discussions with key stakeholders to discuss the national crisis of HIV and Drug Abuse which is aimed at educating and creating a safe space for youths to openly discuss these issues and be agents of behavioural changes.

The Director General for Fiji Red Cross Society Ragigia Dawai says youths need to foster a deeper understanding and encouraging proactive involvement in our communities.

Dawai says the involvement of Fiji Red Cross together with the Fiji Police Force and the Ministry of Children and Social Protection speaks volume of the crisis and disaster that our country is facing.

She says a community based problem needs a community based solution.

Acting Director of the National Substance Abuse Advisory Council and panelist, Josua Naisele highlighted the importance of the role of the family in combating drugs and HIV and reiterates the need for parents to continue their mandatory and legislative roles and to keep talking to their children.

Naisele says parents need to mentor their children and lead by example.

He says students in the school system need counseling since drugs has found its way into the system.

Naisele adds more school based interaction needs to be done on a weekly basis as juveniles are now involved in the peddling of drugs.

He urges stakeholders to work together and not in isolation and explore collaborative solutions.