A recent survey indicates that a remarkable 96% of schools in Fiji are prioritizing the integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) skills into their educational programs. This survey was conducted as part of the 2024 Commonwealth of Learning (COL) Status of ICT in Education in Fiji and gathered feedback from 1,036 participants, including 787 primary school and 249 secondary school respondents. The findings were shared during a national consultation workshop, which took place on March 13, aimed at enhancing the ICT in Education Policy.
Timoci Bure, the acting permanent secretary of the Ministry of Education, highlighted the vital role of digital literacy in today’s educational landscape. He noted that Fiji is at the threshold of a digital transformation, presenting an incredible opportunity to utilize technology to build a more inclusive and innovative educational framework. The curriculum is set to include crucial skills such as understanding computer functions, online research techniques, and safe technology usage, all of which are essential for students’ success in a digital economy.
However, Bure also recognized significant challenges, including unequal access to technology, inadequate infrastructure, and a lack of training for teachers. He stressed that while many schools are embracing ICT, it is essential to ensure equitable access so that every student can benefit from a digitally-enhanced education.
The workshop served as a platform for education stakeholders to brainstorm effective strategies for better ICT integration within schools. Representatives from Commonwealth Learning emphasized the importance of collaboration among educators and policymakers to enact meaningful changes in educational practices. They cautioned that without a comprehensive action plan, mere policies may fail to bring about the necessary advancements in the educational landscape.
The educational reforms stemming from these discussions aim to cultivate a generation of digitally literate students capable of navigating the challenges of the modern world. Although obstacles exist, Fiji’s commitment to advancing ICT education holds the potential to foster a new generation of innovative thinkers, thereby creating an optimistic outlook for the future of the nation. By focusing on collaboration and investment in digital education, Fiji aspires to ensure that its youth are adequately prepared to excel in a competitive global environment.
Overall, this initiative reflects a positive movement towards a holistic educational framework that not only embraces technology but also addresses existing disparities, paving the way for a resilient and well-equipped future generation.
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