The General Secretary of the Fijian Teachers Association, Paula Manumanunitoga, has urged the elimination of the No Repeat Policy in education. The association has been advocating for this change for several months, and the issue has gained urgency following the recent release of the Fiji Eighth Year Examination results.
Manumanunitoga emphasizes the importance of allowing children who fail their exams to repeat their year, arguing that it enables targeted support to help them prepare for future educational challenges. He believes that keeping students in the same grade can prevent them from advancing without the necessary skills and knowledge, and he encourages parents to take a more active role in their children’s education, which can positively influence their academic performance.
The pass rate for the recent examination was slightly higher at 69% compared to 67% the previous year, which Manumanunitoga interprets as indicative of underlying weaknesses in the education system. He calls for a collective evaluation by all stakeholders, from teachers to higher educational authorities, to assess potential improvements for the upcoming school year.
Manumanunitoga raises concerns regarding the curriculum and teacher training quality, questioning whether they contribute to the low performance levels. He expresses concern that nearly half of the Year 8 students may have failed, labeling the situation as both “shocking” and “shameful.” He insists that accountability is necessary among educational leaders and calls for a reassessment of those in positions of influence who may not be fulfilling their responsibilities adequately.
Additionally, he highlights that teacher well-being in a demanding work environment plays a crucial role in student outcomes. The association is advocating for better pay and conditions for teachers, and Manumanunitoga has expressed frustration over the lack of attention from the government, particularly from the Minister for Finance, Biman Prasad.
The Fijian Teachers Association’s call for a review of the educational policies reflects a broader concern about academic standards and the importance of supporting both students and teachers to foster a better learning environment.
This call to action underscores the adaptability and responsiveness of the education sector to challenges and fosters hope for systemic improvements that could benefit teachers and students alike. By focusing on collaboration and communication among all stakeholders, there is potential for positive change in the educational landscape of Fiji.
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