Children of Correction officers in Labasa during a week-long workshop.

While other children may be enjoying the school break, children of Correction officers at the Labasa Corrections Centre are keeping themselves busy by learning about the effects of drugs and substance abuse, among other things.

Corrections Supervisor Northern, Superintendent Sakiusa Veiwili said there is a need to keep our children occupied especially with the holidays and festive season here.

“When they are at school they are under the direct supervision of teachers. At home, during the school break, no one is there to watch over them.

“So we’ve decided to ensure that they do something useful. We don’t want them to be idle and get into the wrong crowd as a result,” SP Veiwili said.

According to Mr Veiwili, the week-long course was also about educating the children on their rights and responsibilities, family values and how not to lead a life of crime.

Representatives of the Fiji Police Force Drug Unit and Community Policing, Military officers, Red Cross and the office of the District officer Labasa have all pitched in to help feed these young brains.

Participants are also being taught foot drill exercises and discipline by the military, including team building by Correction officers.

The 22 children range from class 6 level to form seven. 

www.corrections.org.fj