Fiji’s proposed Education Bill faces challenges in keeping pace with the rapidly evolving higher education landscape, as outlined by officials from the Fiji Higher Education Commission (FHEC). During discussions with the Standing Committee on Justice, Law and Human Rights, FHEC representatives emphasized the need for the bill to adapt to reflect significant changes in learning methodologies, technology, and qualification delivery since the enactment of the Higher Education Act in 2008.
The FHEC highlighted that the educational environment has transformed dramatically, notably with the increased global mobility of students and workers, the rise of artificial intelligence, and the growing popularity of micro-credentials. These short training programs, which often require weeks rather than years, are not clearly regulated under the current legal framework or adequately addressed in the draft bill.
Officials cautioned that without a legal structure to acknowledge and regulate these forms of learning, students may end up with qualifications that hold little value in Fiji or abroad. They also pointed out the significant expansion of Fiji’s higher education sector, which has progressed from a single university to multiple fully registered institutions, including two theological schools now on track for university status.
The commission asserted the necessity of reviewing Fiji’s national qualifications framework to ensure that the forthcoming Education Bill supports effective accreditation and quality assurance across all educational levels. While committee members expressed concerns that recognizing micro-credentials could potentially dilute academic standards, the FHEC maintained that diverse learning pathways are crucial for various groups, including working adults and early school leavers who wish to enhance their skills.
To address these issues, the FHEC intends to provide detailed written recommendations identifying gaps within the bill and suggesting amendments that would align the legislation with the present and future trends in higher education. This proactive approach aims to enhance Fiji’s educational credibility and competitiveness on a global scale, ultimately benefiting students and the nation’s economic progress.
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