Passage into adulthood
JUVENILE crime is a serious challenge which affects families and communities, says permanent secretary for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation Jennifer Poole.
She made the comments after receiving donations from Inspire Pacific at the Fiji Juvenile Rehabilitation and Development Centre (FJDRC) in Samabula, Suva.
“We are or have all been juveniles and we know that this is often a confusing and difficult passage into adulthood,” she said.
“It is at this time we need to support adolescents as they transition into responsible adults.”
Ms Poole said rehabilitation was the focus of corrections programs for juveniles.
“We believe that through the partnership with non-government organisation, civil society organisations, faith-based organisations and development partners combined will strengthen the rehabilitation programs.
“We will achieve results and (reduce future criminality) by providing new options and help the ministry achieve the larger goal of rehabilitation for the juveniles in this centre.”
She also highlighted that rehabilitation programs would allow young boys to learn new skills and to consider new opportunities.
“We hope this program will turn their dreams into reality and that it will empower them to strive for their goals.”
Ms Poole said the Government provided rehabilitation programs for juveniles through budgetary, programmatic and legislative measures.
She thanked the support shown by Rotary Club, ADB, Exxon Mobil, International Women Association ( IWA), Beacon Media and Freight Services towards the Fiji Juvenile Rehabilitation and Development Centre.