A National Consultation is scheduled for January 16, 2025, at Suva Grammar High School Hall, focusing on the potential repeal of the controversial ‘No Repeat Policy,’ also known as Automatic Progression. This initiative, announced by Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro, aims to gather insights from a diverse array of stakeholders including parents, teachers, student representatives, and educational partners.

Minister Radrodro emphasized the necessity of the consultations, indicating that the No Repeat Policy has inadvertently fostered a culture of complacency among students. Recent Year Eight examination results reveal that nearly half of the 19,350 students who took the exams did not achieve passing scores, raising concerns about the policy’s effectiveness and its impact on student motivation. The situation has attracted attention from critics who argue that the policy, which allows automatic promotion regardless of academic performance, may diminish the drive for academic excellence among students.

Aligned with the Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4), which aims to provide inclusive and equitable quality education for all by 2030, the consultation will evaluate both the positive and negative impacts of this educational policy. One of the primary objectives is to ensure that students attain the necessary competencies at each grade level before advancing, thus reinforcing educational standards and enhancing overall learning outcomes.

The forthcoming consultation reflects a growing consensus among educational leaders, including Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, who advocate for more rigorous educational standards. They assert that permitting students to repeat grades when necessary can better prepare them for future academic challenges, recognizing that not all students learn at the same pace.

This National Consultation presents a valuable opportunity for constructive dialogue among stakeholders, potentially paving the way for reforms that will enhance student achievement and engagement. By fostering a collaborative approach to educational reform, there is optimism that these discussions will lead to meaningful policy changes that benefit all students in Fiji.

In summary, the consultation aims not only to critique existing policies but to explore reformative pathways that could bolster the educational system. This endeavor exhibits a commitment to elevating educational standards and ensuring that every student in Fiji is equipped to succeed in their academic pursuits. The hopeful prospect of these discussions reflects a dedicated effort towards improving the quality of education in the country, which can ultimately lead to brighter futures for its students.