Paula Manumanunitoga, the general secretary of the Fijian Teachers Association, has urged for the elimination of the No Repeat Policy in the education system. This call comes in light of the recent release of the Fiji Eighth Year Examination results, which highlighted a concerning pass rate of 69%, only slightly improved from last year’s 67%.
Manumanunitoga advocates for the retention of students who do not pass their examinations, arguing that it would enable focused support for these learners as they prepare for future academic challenges. He emphasized that allowing students to advance despite failing could minimize the importance of academic performance and encourages parental involvement in their children’s education.
He stressed that all educational stakeholders, including classroom teachers, divisional offices, and the Ministry of Education, need to conduct a thorough evaluation of the education system to address the underlying issues contributing to the alarming pass rates. Manumanunitoga raised concerns regarding the curriculum and the quality of teachers being produced by tertiary institutions, suggesting a potential link between these factors and student performance.
Additionally, he highlighted that teachers’ well-being is crucial for student success, advocating for better pay and support for educators. Despite reaching out to the government for assistance, he noted a lack of response from Finance Minister Biman Prasad regarding their demands.
The association’s push for change underscores an ongoing dialogue about enhancing educational standards and ensuring students are adequately prepared for each academic level.
In summary, the Fijian Teachers Association is calling attention to significant educational challenges, advocating for policy changes that prioritize student retention and improved support systems. By addressing these issues, there is a hopeful possibility that conditions could improve for both teachers and students in the future.
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