The No Repeat Policy, implemented by the FijiFirst government in 2014, has emerged as a key factor contributing to significant educational challenges in Fiji’s secondary schools. Paula Manumanunitoga, the president of the Fijian Teachers Association (FTA), has highlighted the troubling implications of this policy, which promotes students automatically regardless of their academic performance. This has led to an alarming situation where many students, some reaching Year 12, are unable to read proficiently.

In a recent call to action, Manumanunitoga urged the Ministry of Education to reassess this policy. He advocates for a mandatory system requiring students to repeat grades if they do not achieve satisfactory results, emphasizing that foundational skills, particularly in reading, should be established by Year 8. He stated, “The FTA fully supports the Honorable Minister of Education” in the movement to abolish the No Repeat Policy, which he argues has significantly diminished academic accountability among students and parents alike.

The policy’s unintended consequences have also led to a decline in parental engagement, as parents become complacent knowing their children will advance to the next grade even if they are underperforming. The FTA notes that this lack of oversight has resulted in an increase in primary school dropout rates, which recently reached 4,589 students.

Addressing these challenges, the FTA proposes several crucial measures. They urge the Ministry of Education to establish a close monitoring system for student performance, particularly in primary schools. Furthermore, Manumanunitoga has called for improved teacher assessments based on their students’ academic outcomes to foster accountability and enhance educational quality.

This ongoing dialogue about reform in Fiji’s educational system has garnered attention from other leaders as well, including Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, who acknowledges the need for a systemic review in light of children being inadequately prepared for academic demands.

The collective advocacy from the FTA and educational leaders signals a hopeful movement towards enhancing teaching standards, ensuring rigorous academic preparedness, and fostering stronger family engagement in students’ learning journeys. By prioritizing foundational skills and accountability, there is potential for significant improvements in Fiji’s educational outcomes, thereby laying the groundwork for future academic success among students.

In summary, the FTA’s push to repeal the No Repeat Policy reflects a critical moment in Fiji’s education landscape, with hopes for policy reform that will better serve students and bolster the nation’s academic standing in the Pacific region.