Over 100 students from Jones Adventist College (JAC) in North Vella La Vella, Western Province, have been suspended following serious allegations involving the use of harmful substances, including copen and the sniffing of fuel.
The large-scale disciplinary action was confirmed by school authorities earlier last week, who cited growing concerns over substance abuse among students as a major threat to their health, academic performance, and overall discipline at the college.
The suspended students, reportedly caught during an internal investigation conducted by school staff, were found in possession of copen—a local homemade tobacco product—and in some cases, engaging in the dangerous practice of inhaling fuel.
Both acts are considered harmful and illegal under school rules and national health guidelines.
According reports from close source form the school, that the decision to suspend the students was made to send a strong message to others that such behaviour will not be tolerated.
“The school upholds Christian values and discipline. This kind of behaviour puts the students’ lives at risk and also tarnishes the image of the institution,” a concerned parent from North Vella, in Dovele told this paper in a n interview.
The concerned parent said the school has already contacted the affected students’ parents and guardians, and counseling sessions will be arranged before any of them are considered for reinstatement.
As of Wednesday, many of the suspended JAC students had already travelled back to Gizo and are now expected to return to their respective home villages.
Reports from the school indicated that the suspension period will last for at least two to three weeks, during which the students will not attend any academic classes.
They are expected to return to sit their exams.
Concerned parents are now calling on the Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development (MEHRD), along with local health authorities, to step in and provide immediate support.
This includes delivering awareness programs on the dangers of substance abuse and reinforcing positive behaviour among students.
Community leaders and parents in North Vella have also voiced their concerns, urging for stronger preventative measures to limit the availability of harmful substances in and around school zones.
They stressed the need for continued collaboration between schools, families, and authorities to ensure a safe and disciplined learning environment for all students.
Some of the students are now back with their parents and guardians are of this week to serve their suspension period.
The school administration could not be reached for comments last week.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
