By FFWPU Fiji
With approval from Fiji’s Ministry of Education, FFWPU Fiji conducted the first phase of its Character Education Programme with the theme: Character education and healthy living, focusing on HIV awareness, drug prevention, personal responsibility and positive contribution to society in seven schools: Ahmadiyya Muslim College, Kalabu Secondary School, Nabua Secondary School, Baulevu High School, Nakasi High School, Nasinu Muslim School and Noco Secondary School, on September 29 to October 9, 2026. Approximately 1,200 students, teachers, principals and school management team members participated.
Dr Jacinta, an Australian educator with experience teaching character education in Samoa and the Solomon Islands, served as the lead presenter. The programme addressed HIV awareness, the risks associated with drug use and the importance of character development.
Interactive questions and answers covered HIV prevention, testing and treatment; the harms of drug use; responding to peer pressure; and seeking help for someone affected by addiction. The character education sessions explored three life goals: developing mature character, building loving relationships and families, and making a positive contribution to society. Participants were also introduced to principles such as cultivating a good heart, strengthening conscience, practising self-control, accepting responsibility and caring for others.
The programme aimed to provide young people with knowledge to make responsible choices and values that can support their families, schools and communities. By connecting health education with character development, the sessions encouraged participants to consider how personal decisions affect both individual wellbeing and the people around them.
The Ministry’s approval envisaged a two-phase programme, including student participation in quiz, oratory and debate activities. FFWPU Fiji will continue coordinating with school heads and education offices as it prepares for the next phase.
