Minister for Education Mr Filipe Bole says the recent police findings relating to the rise in sexual offences committed in the Northern division is quiet shocking.
The Minister was commenting over an article in the Fiji Sun (06/05/10) revealing the increase in sexual crimes committed against young children.
What is even more disturbing is the link between the rise in sexual offenses to the parents’ absence from home, socialising around a yaqona basin. This parental behaviour and attitude cannot be condoned.
Parents need to understand that Government, through the Ministry of Education, is expanding financial resources to put every child to school, ensuring a better future. Government continues to seek avenues to pursue this so that Fiji becomes a nation that offers free education.
Mr Bole urges parents to reciprocate the assistance by saving money spent on activities such as yaqona sessions and cigarettes for priority activities for the family, especially children.
Through grog parties, valuable time is wasted that could be well utilised at home with children. The police findings have revealed that time spent away from home is time enough for some children to fall into negative situations. Mr Bole urges all parents to play their role.
Mr Filipe Bole, Minister for Education, National Heritage, Culture and Arts, Youth and Sports, Labour, Industrial Relations and Employment.