The Fijian Elections Office (FEO), in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, has initiated a series of implementation workshops aimed at equipping educators across Fiji with the necessary skills and knowledge for the upcoming 2026 elections curriculum. This initiative is being hailed as a pivotal step in advancing civic education, focusing specifically on preparing teachers to deliver democracy education as part of the Year 9 and 10 Social Science curriculum.
Ana Mataiciwa, the Supervisor of Elections, emphasized that the goal is to ensure that every secondary school educator involved in teaching these subjects is confident and competent in disseminating the new material. By the time the curriculum is launched in 2026, the FEO aims to have engaged all secondary schools, reaching a total of 112 institutions following a successful pilot involving 67 schools earlier this year. Mataiciwa stated, “Through these sessions, we will ensure every teacher leaves empowered, ready to teach this vital content.”
The workshops not only represent a significant educational enhancement but also reflect a broader commitment to fostering an informed and engaged citizenry. The FEO has worked closely with the Ministry of Education to tailor the curriculum to meet the needs of Fiji’s diverse student population, thereby promoting an inclusive educational environment.
In line with this initiative, the FEO continues to implement various strategies to enhance civic engagement across the country. One such strategy includes the Community Election Advocates Programme, which aims to deploy 450 trained volunteers throughout Fiji. This program is designed to strengthen the relationship between electoral institutions and local communities, ensuring that citizens are well-informed and prepared to participate in the electoral process.
Reflecting on the challenges faced in previous elections and the importance of building public trust, Mataiciwa noted that these educational initiatives are vital to fostering an environment where citizens feel confident in their democratic processes. With the general elections scheduled for 2026, the proactive measures being undertaken, including the development of a comprehensive elections curriculum and community outreach, signify a hopeful move towards a more transparent and inclusive electoral atmosphere in Fiji.
As these workshops commence in various locations such as Suva, Lautoka, Rakiraki, and Savusavu, the FEO remains committed to creating a robust educational framework that not only empowers educators but also encourages civic participation among future voters, ultimately paving the way for a stronger democracy in Fiji.
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