Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Professor Biman Prasad recently emphasized the critical role of teachers and school leaders in driving real change within classrooms. During the 130th Fiji Principals Association conference held in Labasa, he discussed the necessity for an education system that adapts rapidly to the evolving needs of society, highlighting the importance of agility, innovation, and the ability to self-correct.
Professor Prasad expressed concern that many of the occupations for which students are currently being prepared may become obsolete within the next couple of decades, primarily due to advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI). He pointed out that in some cases, positions may be replaced by AI even before current students graduate.
Addressing the issue of subjects becoming outdated, he urged school principals to implement necessary reforms and innovations. This aligns with one of the principal goals of the National Development Plan 2025-2029, which aims to enhance the quality of education across all levels to keep pace with the changing labor market.
Earlier in the year, concerns were raised during an inaugural provincial education forum about the foundational skills of primary and secondary school students. Ratu Meli Saubulinayau, then chairperson of the Lau Provincial Council, highlighted that students were advancing to higher grades without mastery of fundamental skills such as mathematics, reading, and writing, prompting calls for an evaluation of the education system. He suggested that a new framework be established to assist children’s education in the Lau Group, where basic skills were notably lacking.
Ratu Meli noted a troubling trend, stating that some students reached Year 12 without the ability to read or write adequately. This alarming revelation about the standard of education highlighted the urgent need for reassessment.
In light of previous discussions about educational challenges, it has been recognized that some students entering high school were struggling with reading, a situation flagged by a principal at a meeting in 2020. At that time, officials from the Ministry of Education acknowledged the issue and were seeking effective solutions.
This situation raises critical questions about the efficacy of current educational practices and policies, including the system of automatic promotion. Reflection on the implications of insufficient foundational skills is crucial, as is the engagement of the community in dialogue concerning educational reforms.
Stakeholder collaboration—among educators, parents, community leaders, and policymakers—will be vital in reshaping the education system to adequately prepare students for the future. It is essential to foster a proactive approach that embraces the need for change and improvement in educational quality.