Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad emphasized the crucial role of teachers and school leaders in driving real change within schools and classrooms. During his address at the Fiji Principals’ Association’s 130th conference in Labasa on Wednesday, he highlighted the need for the education system to adapt to the rapidly changing societal demands, becoming more agile and innovative.
Prasad remarked that outdated methods would not suffice for the future. He expressed concern that many vocational paths currently offered at universities may become obsolete in the next decade or two, primarily due to the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI). He explained that certain jobs could be replaced by AI even before current students graduate, and some subjects in the curriculum could be rendered irrelevant as they are currently structured.
The Minister called on school principals to actively implement necessary reforms and innovations. He stressed that achieving better educational outcomes relies on committed and effective leadership throughout the education sector. He urged school leaders to be at the forefront of developing ideas and strategies to reshape education for the future.
Prasad pointed out that without the active involvement of school principals and teachers, it would be challenging to implement the needed changes effectively. He also noted that enhancing the quality of education at all levels is a primary focus of the National Development Plan 2025-2029, aimed at aligning education with the evolving job market.