The Fijian Teachers Association (FTA) has voiced serious concerns over the No Repeat Policy implemented by the FijiFirst government in 2014, highlighting its detrimental impact on academic standards in Fiji’s secondary schools. According to FTA president Paula Manumanunitoga, the policy’s provision for automatic promotion of students, regardless of their academic performance, has led to a concerning increase in the number of non-readers by Year 12.

In his recent appeal to the Ministry of Education, Manumanunitoga urged for the abolishment of this policy, advocating for a mandatory repetition system for students who do not achieve satisfactory academic results. He asserted that such a system is crucial for reinstating accountability within the education system, which has seen a drop in parental engagement. Many parents have become complacent, knowing their children will automatically advance to the next grade despite their lack of progress.

Moreover, the FTA reported a troubling increase in primary school dropout rates, which have soared to approximately 4,589 students. The association believes that requiring students to repeat grades when they fail could help mitigate this trend and encourage parental involvement in their children’s education, fostering a more accountable educational environment.

To further address these issues, the FTA is advocating for a rigorous monitoring system of student performance from Years 1 to 8, ensuring that foundational skills, particularly in reading, are developed before transitioning to secondary education. Additionally, they propose evaluating teachers based on their students’ academic performances to enhance accountability across the education sector.

These concerns resonate with the broader educational community, including support from Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, who has also emphasized the need to reassess the No Repeat Policy in light of recent exam results indicating that many students are not adequately prepared for further challenges.

In conclusion, the push for reform signifies a hopeful movement towards enhancing educational standards in Fiji. By focusing on accountability, supporting student development, and increasing parental engagement, there exists a promise for a brighter academic future for students. Continued dialogue among educators and policymakers will be crucial in fostering an educational environment where all learners can succeed and thrive.