Premila Kumar, an Opposition Member of Parliament in Fiji, has expressed strong disapproval of the Ministry of Education’s recent directive requiring schools to include prayer and fasting as part of their daily routines. Kumar criticized the lack of engagement with school management committees and parents, questioning whether faith-based organizations were consulted before this decision was made.
Kumar pointed out that the Ministry should focus on pressing issues such as teacher shortages, resource allocation, and curriculum improvements, rather than adopting a religious approach to address educational challenges. She noted that while prayer is a personal choice in a democratic society, the constitution of Fiji guarantees freedom of religion, including the right to avoid religious practices.
Furthermore, she called on the Minister of Education to disclose the extent of community consultation that took place before the announcement, emphasizing the need for alignment with the country’s commitment to secular education.
This issue reflects ongoing discussions about moral education within Fiji’s schools. Recently, Govind Singh, president of the School Management Association of Fiji, highlighted concerns over a perceived moral decline among students, attributing it to the absence of spiritual leaders in educational environments. There is a growing argument among various faith leaders for the integration of moral and ethical values to combat youth issues, such as substance abuse and violence.
While the Ministry’s initiative may aim to instill moral values within the student population, it is essential that such measures are implemented in a way that respects the diverse beliefs of families and students. The current dialogue on this topic presents a chance for various stakeholders, including educators, parents, and religious organizations, to collaborate effectively. By doing so, they can tackle the significant educational challenges faced by Fiji, ultimately fostering an environment that supports the holistic development of its youth.
In conclusion, while debating the role of prayer in schools, it’s important to ensure that solutions address the broader needs in education while promoting inclusivity and respect for all beliefs.
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