The initiative for free education has been praised as a groundbreaking policy designed to give every child the chance to complete their education without the heavy burden of financial constraints. However, recent data indicating that 5,726 secondary school students and 4,589 primary school students have dropped out or remain unregistered from 2019 to 2023 reveals a troubling trend.
While the Ministry of Education has implemented helpful measures, such as transportation assistance and pathways to Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), these concerning statistics highlight a significant issue—parents are failing their children.
Education Minister Aseri Radrodro’s statements in Parliament should have resonated deeply within families across Fiji. Instead of placing blame solely on external factors, it is crucial for parents to reflect on their own responsibilities. The government has provided free schooling, free textbooks, and bus fare assistance, yet thousands of students continue to fall through the cracks.
The reasons for this challenge—migration, family breakdowns, or seeking employment—are merely symptoms of a more profound issue. The underlying problem is a lack of appreciation for education and a failure to prioritize the future of Fiji’s youth. Often, parents quickly assign blame to outside influences instead of confronting their part in this crisis.
When families neglect to emphasize the importance of education, we risk creating generations of children vulnerable to missed opportunities and hardship. Reverend Simione Tugi raises critical concerns: “If this is what we are noticing, then what can we expect? Will we see an increase in youths on the streets committing crimes?” These questions are no longer just theoretical—they are becoming a pressing concern for Fiji. Unless families begin to embrace their responsibility, the country will face ongoing issues with rising dropout rates, disillusioned youth, and a dim future.
It is imperative for parents to take action, invest time, and prioritize the education of their children. The government has fulfilled its promise, and now it is time for parents to do the same.