FIFTY-four high school students from nine schools in Lautoka, Ba and Nadi are this week attending a National Substance Abuse Advisory Council workshop at Jasper Williams High School.
The objective of the Ministry of Education-organised workshop is to educate and widen students’ knowledge and understanding of issues such as child abuse, violence against girls, drugs abuse and (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) HIV/AIDS.
HIV advocate Joana Qereqeretabua shared her experience to the participating students on the deadly HIV.
Ms Qereqeretabua reminded students of the importance of making good choices in their lives.
“I would prefer abstinence; it is much better and much safer. At times as teenagers we are pressured to go out clubbing and drinking, beware this can lead to sexual related activities and increases the risk of sexually transmitted disease like HIV.”
She also informed the students the significance of accepting anyone living with HIV.
“We are all human beings and need to be treated equally and respectfully,” said Ms Qereqeretabua.
Education Minister Filipe Bole commended Ms Qereqeretabua for taking the bold step in educating students by highlighting the issue.