The Fijian Teachers Association (FTA) has once again raised concerns about the No Repeat Policy introduced in 2014 by the FijiFirst government, citing it as a significant factor in the decline of academic standards across secondary schools in Fiji. Paula Manumanunitoga, the FTA president, emphasized that automatic promotion has led to an alarming number of students unable to read proficiently by Year 12.

During a recent appeal, Manumanunitoga called for the Ministry of Education to abolish this policy and implement a system mandating that students must repeat grades if they fail to meet satisfactory performance levels. He stated that such a change is essential to restore accountability within the education system, which has seen decreased parental involvement as complacency has taken root among families who know their children will be advanced regardless of performance.

The impact of the No Repeat Policy is evident, with primary school dropout rates climbing to around 4,589 students. Manumanunitoga argues that if students are required to repeat grades for inadequate performance, it would not only help reduce dropout rates but would also encourage parents to take a more active role in their children’s education.

The FTA is advocating for closer monitoring of student performance from Years 1 to 8 to ensure that foundational skills, particularly in reading, are built before students transition to secondary education. Additionally, the association suggests evaluating teachers based on their students’ academic results, which would foster accountability and support improvements in educational outcomes.

These sentiments echo the concerns of other educational leaders, including Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, who is advocating for a reevaluation of the No Repeat Policy in light of recent examination results that indicate students are inadequately prepared for academic challenges.

The discussions surrounding the potential repeal of the No Repeat Policy reflect a hopeful movement toward reforming Fiji’s education system. By prioritizing accountability and foundational skills, there is promise for a more robust educational framework that can improve academic preparedness and ultimately lay the groundwork for future success among students.

In summary, the FTA’s push for change signifies a critical opportunity for educational improvement in Fiji. Such reforms could pave the way for enhanced academic achievement and ensure that students are properly equipped for their future endeavors, fostering a supportive environment where both students and educators can thrive.