Fiji’s Bold Move: Full-Day Pre-Primary Education Rolls Out!

The recent implementation of a full-day pre-primary education program in Fiji, rolled out last week across all 875 Ministry of Education registered kindergartens, is a significant step in early childhood education. This initiative, developed in partnership with UNICEF, was announced by Education Minister Aseri Radrodro during a session in Parliament.

Minister Radrodro explained that the development of this program followed a rigorous analysis of the preschool educational sector, informing the changes incorporated into the pre-primary education policy launched in April 2025. While there have been concerns raised regarding the adequacy of facilities and the emotional impact of longer school hours on young children, he assured Parliament that the rollout has been executed successfully.

Teachers in the early childhood education sector are now expected to work full eight-hour days, allowing them to prepare adequately for their lessons. Parents have been notified that they can pick up their children as early as 12 or 1 PM if they wish.

This initiative follows previous challenges faced by some pre-primary schools, particularly those struggling with space and infrastructure as they transition to full-day programs. Despite these hurdles, the shift to full-day ECE is seen as a move to enhance access and continuity in early learning, promoting not just academic but also social and emotional development for the children involved.

The feedback from parents has been largely positive, as many appreciate the convenience of extended hours allowing them to manage work and family obligations while their children receive quality education. With ongoing improvements in early childhood education in Fiji, there is a unified hope that these developments will nurture the youngest generation, paving the way for a brighter educational future.

As the program continues and stakeholder feedback is addressed, there is optimism that this will lead to meaningful enhancements in the educational experience of young learners in Fiji. The government’s commitment, alongside community support and constructive dialogue, highlights the potential for significant progress in the country’s educational landscape.