The government has revealed a concerning number of students dropping out of school between 2019 and 2023, despite the implementation of a free education scheme. This revelation has sparked urgent appeals from Education Minister Aseri Radrodro, teachers’ unions, and the Fiji Evangelical Fellowship, urging parents, guardians, and other stakeholders to prioritize education in Fiji.
During a parliamentary session, Minister Radrodro reported that 5,726 students did not complete Year 10 over the past four years, averaging 1,431 dropouts each year. Furthermore, the Ministry’s Fiji Education Management Information System Database (FEMIS) indicated that 4,589 primary school students were unregistered in schools during the same time period.
Although specific reasons for the dropouts are not documented, the disclosed causes include deaths, migration, transitions from public to private schools, and medical conditions.
In response, the Ministry has collaborated with school leaders to reach out to “at-risk students” through home visits and counseling, encouraging them to continue their education. Various factors such as family breakdown, migration, and entry into the workforce have been identified as contributing to the increasing dropout rates. Minister Radrodro emphasized the need for a collective effort from government agencies, civil society, religious organizations, and families to tackle this issue.
To mitigate the problem, the Ministry has implemented several measures, including:
– Alternative pathways such as Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and micro-skills training.
– A Special Inclusive Education Grant (SIEG) for all eligible school-age children.
– Transport assistance for students.
– Provision of textbooks to ease financial burdens.
– Access to extracurricular activities such as sports, cadet training, and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.
The issue has garnered significant concern from educational and religious organizations. Fiji Teacher’s Union (FTU) General Secretary Muniappa Goundar and Fijian Teachers Association (FTA) General Secretary Paula Manumanunitoga have consistently advocated for immediate action to secure the future of Fiji. Reverend Simione Tugi, General Secretary of the Fiji Evangelical Fellowship, expressed his worries, stating that education is crucial for the nation’s future leaders and warned that rising dropout rates could lead to increased youth crime.
Reverend Tugi underscored the importance of strengthening family units to combat this issue, noting that many parents are not devoting enough time to their children’s needs. He urged parents to take action by spending more time with their children and communicating effectively with them. He reminded families that the government provides free school fees and transport assistance and encouraged them to ensure their children attend school for a brighter future in Fiji.