The General Secretary of the Fijian Teachers Association, Paula Manumanunitoga, has advocated for the elimination of the No Repeat Policy, emphasizing its importance in supporting students who do not pass their exams. This plea comes in light of last week’s release of the Fiji Eighth Year Examination results, which highlighted potential weaknesses in the education system, as evidenced by a marginal increase in the pass rate from 67% to 69%.
Manumanunitoga believes that retaining students who fail would provide them with targeted assistance to improve their academic performance. He argues that this approach would not only prevent students from progressing without proper preparation but also motivate parents to engage more actively in their children’s education.
He pointed out that all stakeholders in the educational sector, ranging from classroom teachers to ministry officials, need to assess the situation and develop strategies for improvement. The association questions whether the curriculum or the quality of teacher training is contributing to the current low pass rates.
Manumanunitoga termed the results shocking, noting that almost half of the Year 8 students failed the examination, and called for accountability within the education system. He also highlighted the impact of teachers’ work conditions on student success, noting the necessity for increased salaries to reflect their crucial roles.
In a positive light, this call for policy revision and educational reform could lead to significant improvements in the education system in Fiji. By addressing these concerns, stakeholders can work collaboratively to enhance both student achievement and teacher welfare, positioning the education sector for a brighter future.
Overall, the situation presents an opportunity for constructive change, urging a reevaluation of practices and policies that directly affect the quality of education.
Leave a comment