Concerns are growing about the troubling number of approximately 6,000 students failing the Fiji Year 8 Examination in 2024. Esteemed writers Nishant Singh and Tai Smith recently shared their views in the Letters to the Editor column. One writer proposed the abolition of the “no-repeat policy,” while the other pointed to parental and teacher negligence as contributing factors to this alarming trend.
The introduction of mandatory education from kindergarten to Year 12 by the previous government has unintentionally bred complacency among students. Many now assume they will progress to Year 12 regardless of their academic performance. Nevertheless, it is crucial that students also be held accountable for their actions. There is a growing trend of disrespect towards authority among modern students, fueled by a perceived sense of entitlement. This has contributed to issues such as misconduct and substance abuse.
To genuinely improve academic outcomes and restore discipline, a thorough reevaluation of the education system is essential. A society that normalizes mediocrity in education undermines its own future, and therefore urgent action is required.
In other discussions, there is an ongoing debate about how to address drug use in villages. While some suggest that evicting drug users could be a solution, others believe such actions would lead to further societal issues, pushing drug users into the streets and exacerbating problems. Advocates for compassion argue that support and dialogue, rather than eviction, will lead to more effective outcomes for villages grappling with this crisis. Reporting issues to authorities and fostering community discussions are seen as constructive steps forward.
Additionally, the worrying trend of increasing drug-related arrests highlights the necessity for families to remain vigilant. While Fiji today is markedly different from the drug climate of the 1980s and 1990s, community collaboration with law enforcement is more critical than ever in combatting drug issues.
Further complicating these discussions is the rising incidence of crimes against children associated with perceived parental neglect. Critics argue that current laws may inhibit parents’ rights to discipline their children effectively, creating a cycle of blame between lawmakers and families. A call for revising these laws could pave the way for more supportive environments that empower both parents and children.
In summary, while challenges abound in education and public health, the community is encouraged to engage in constructive dialogue to address these multifaceted issues. With collective effort and compassion, solutions can be found that benefit all stakeholders involved.
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