The Education Bill 2025 aims to enhance school attendance enforcement by imposing stricter measures and clearly defining the responsibilities of both parents and the Ministry of Education, including penalties for those who repeatedly fail to comply. This legislation also empowers the Ministry to take action in situations where children are either unenrolled or not regularly attending school.
One of the significant reforms introduced by the Bill is the establishment of a National Curriculum and Assessment Authority, tasked with overseeing and maintaining national education standards across all registered educational institutions, including private and home schools. Education Minister Aseri Radrodro emphasized that the Bill is intended to safeguard every child’s right to an education while modernizing school operations and regulatory frameworks for learning outcomes nationwide.
Radrodro stated, “The principles of the Bill are really to address the issues that have been raised which are affecting our education system and where improvement is needed. That is what this Bill is trying to cover.” He elaborated that the primary goal is to foster an inclusive education system that supports students at every stage, from early childhood to higher education.
Additionally, the Bill strengthens the rules surrounding school registration and operations, enabling the Ministry to take necessary actions against non-compliant institutions, including closures if student welfare or national education standards are at risk. It also outlines regulations for home schooling, clarifies guidelines regarding religious instruction in schools, and prioritizes the best interests of the child in all education-related decisions.
The Education Bill 2025 was presented to Parliament last month, and after passing its first reading, it is set for further examination and stakeholder consultations prior to the second reading in an upcoming session. This legislative move is expected to bring significant improvements to the education system, ensuring that it is equitable and effective for all learners.
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