The Ministry of Education in Fiji is set to reinstate a scaling system for national examinations beginning in the 2026 academic year. This decision, announced by Education Minister Aseri Radrodro, aims to establish a fairer assessment framework for all students, particularly those from rural, maritime, and remote areas where access to learning resources can vary significantly.
Radrodro noted that scaling was an integral aspect of the education system until its removal by a previous minister. He expressed that the reintroduction of this system addresses disparities in student performance that arise from differing access to educational support. In his remarks, Radrodro emphasized the importance of adjusting marks based on geographical factors, stating, “There is a need for scaling based on geographical location and the disparity of marks attained by students in rural, maritime, and other remote areas.”
The Education Minister highlighted recent examination results that underscored the necessity of this adjustment, reinforcing that the goal is to create a consistent and equitable evaluation system in line with international education standards. The Cabinet had previously approved the scaling system earlier this year, reflecting a commitment to improving educational equity across the nation.
This development aligns with recommendations made during public consultations, which showed substantial community support for reinstating the scaling system. Many countries implement similar strategies to maintain fairness in academic assessments, and Fiji’s steps towards reintroducing scaling can set a precedent for enhancing educational opportunities for all students.
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