The Minister for Education, Aseri Radrodro, presented the Education Bill 2025 to Parliament, a significant legislative initiative aimed at transforming Fiji’s pre-tertiary and higher education system by replacing the outdated Education Act of 1966 and two other related laws. The development of this Bill is the culmination of a thorough review initiated in March 2025, supported by the Fiji Law Reform Commission, UNICEF, and the Global Partnership for Education.
One of the cornerstone advancements proposed in the bill is the recognition of education as a fundamental right, ensuring that every individual has access to early childhood, primary, secondary, and higher education. The legislation guarantees free primary education and intends to provide free secondary and higher education based on available resources. In a move towards inclusivity and accountability, the Bill mandates compulsory education for children of certain ages, with stipulated penalties for non-compliance by parents and obligations for school heads to report cases of truancy.
To enhance educational governance and standards, the Bill establishes two independent national bodies: the Education Advisory Council and the National Curriculum and Assessment Authority. These organizations will play a pivotal role in policy formulation and maintaining alignment with global best practices.
Furthermore, the Bill explicitly prohibits corporal punishment and any forms of degrading treatment in schools, calling for the provision of counseling services to prioritize student well-being. It also introduces requirements for financial transparency in school operations and sets up the Fiji Teachers Registration Authority to regulate teacher qualifications.
The legislation takes into account various educational pathways, including provisions for mature students, homeschooling options, and the regulation of higher education. It is set to undergo reviews every five years to ensure its relevance and effectiveness.
This proactive legislative effort reflects Fiji’s commitment to modernize its education framework, aligning with prior recommendations from English reports emphasizing the need for updates to the 1966 Act to address current educational needs. As the review process involved comprehensive public consultations, it drew valuable insights from stakeholders across the community, thereby fostering hope for an education system that is inclusive and responsive to all Fijians.
Overall, the anticipated changes promise not only to modernize education legislation but also to create a supportive and effective learning environment, preparing Fiji’s students for future challenges in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
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