Recent discussions have emerged regarding a troubling statistic: around 6,000 students failed the Fiji Year 8 Examination in 2024. In the Letters to the Editor column, prominent writers Nishant Singh and Tai Smith offered differing viewpoints. One writer suggested that the “no-repeat policy,” which allows students to progress regardless of academic performance, should be abolished. The other writer attributed the failures to a lack of responsibility from both parents and teachers.
There is a growing consensus that the current education system has led to complacency among students. Many believe their advancement to Year 12 is assured, irrespective of their academic efforts. However, it is crucial not to let students off the hook entirely; they too share responsibility for their performance. Contemporary students, often indulged by their rights, may show a waning respect for authority both in educational settings and at home. Issues like misconduct and substance abuse seem to be escalating among the youth.
To tackle these challenges and enhance educational results while restoring discipline, a thorough reevaluation of the education system is necessary. A society that accepts mediocrity in education risks jeopardizing its future.
In another letter, Sailosi Naewe reflected on the issue of drug use in villages, arguing that evicting drug users from their homes could worsen the situation by driving them into towns, where their issues could then escalate. He advocated for more compassionate approaches, such as supporting individuals through dialogue and involving local law enforcement rather than resorting to evictions.
Floyd Robinson raised concerns about the rise in drug-related offenses, emphasizing that it poses dangers for children growing up in such an environment. He acknowledged the efforts of Assistant Commissioner of Police Operations, Livai Driu, in addressing these issues and underscored the importance of community support to assist the police.
Lastly, Noleen Billings discussed the apparent blame placed on parents for rising crimes against children. She argued that this is an oversimplification, suggesting that laws have shifted parental rights and responsibilities, complicating the dynamics further. Billings advocated for a review of these laws to address the root causes of the problems, including the alarming failure rates in education.
These letters reflect a deep concern for the future of Fiji’s youth and underscore the need for collaborative efforts among parents, educators, law enforcement, and lawmakers to foster a more supportive and accountable environment for the next generation.
While challenges abound, there is hope that through dialogue and more stringent policies, Fiji can strive to improve its educational outcomes and societal health. By working together, communities can create a nurturing environment that counters the issues at hand.
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