The Fijian Minister for Education, Aseri Radrodro, has announced plans for a comprehensive consultation regarding the automatic progression policy in schools, which is informally known as the “No Repeat Policy.” This policy guarantees students advancement to the next grade regardless of their academic performance, a point raised as problematic by various stakeholders.

The consultation is set for January 16 at Suva Grammar High School Hall, and it aims to gather insights from a diverse group of stakeholders including parents, teachers, student representatives, and education partners. Mr. Radrodro acknowledged the concerns that the current policy might diminish the motivation for students to strive for academic excellence, as their promotion is assured despite their achievements.

This initiative aligns with ongoing discussions within the education community, particularly voiced by the Fijian Teachers Association (FTA), which has been advocating for the elimination of this automatic promotion system. FTA General Secretary Paula Manumanunitoga has criticized the policy for contributing to declining academic performance, highlighting that Fiji’s literacy and numeracy rankings have suffered, dropping from first to sixth and seventh in the Pacific region since the policy’s introduction in 2008-2009.

Manumanunitoga further emphasized that the policy has led to reduced parental engagement in their children’s education. He expressed concern over the high dropout rates in primary schools, currently reported at 4,589, suggesting that abolishing the No Repeat Policy could incentivize greater parental involvement and improve academic outcomes.

The upcoming consultation represents a significant opportunity for stakeholders to voice their opinions and experiences, potentially leading to more equitable policy outcomes that could positively influence Fiji’s educational landscape.

In summary, the consultation seeks to evaluate both the positive and negative impacts of the No Repeat Policy, fostering a collaborative approach to education reform while addressing long-standing concerns about student performance and engagement. This initiative reflects a commitment to enhancing educational standards and ensuring that all students receive the support they need to succeed.