The Fijian government is set to hold a National Consultation on January 16, 2025, at Suva Grammar High School Hall to discuss the potential repeal of the ‘No Repeat Policy,’ known as Automatic Progression, which permits students to advance grades without regard to their academic achievements. Minister for Education, Aseri Radrodro, highlighted the importance of this consultation as a platform for various stakeholders—including parents, teachers, and educational organizations—to share their perspectives on the policy’s implications.

Radrodro noted that the current policy has unintentionally cultivated a culture of complacency, where many students may feel less motivated to achieve academic excellence. This was illustrated by alarming statistics from the Year Eight examinations, which revealed that nearly half of the 19,350 students failed to achieve passing scores. Such outcomes raise critical questions about the effectiveness of the education system and the overall motivation of students.

The consultation aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4), which advocates for inclusive and equitable quality education, aiming to evaluate both the positive and negative impacts of the No Repeat Policy. The objective is to ensure that students develop the necessary competencies at each level before moving to the next, thereby reinforcing educational standards and enhancing overall learning outcomes.

Radrodro’s push for this consultation reflects a broader sentiment echoed by political leaders, including Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, who have expressed concern about the educational framework in Fiji. Both emphasize that students should have the option to repeat grades when necessary, aligning with the understanding that not all students learn at the same pace and that struggling students might benefit from additional time to solidify their learning.

The National Consultation offers a hopeful opportunity for significant dialogue, paving the way for reforms that may better support student engagement and achievement in Fiji. By gathering diverse insights from stakeholders, there is potential for a restructured education policy that addresses the needs of all students, ultimately contributing to a brighter future for the educational landscape in the country.