Fiji’s ongoing discussions regarding the extension of early childhood education hours for kindergarten students are generating varying perspectives among stakeholders. Muniappa Goundar, the general secretary of the Fiji Teachers Union, expressed a cautious stance on the proposal to extend kindergarten hours from 8 AM to 3 PM. While he acknowledged potential benefits, he urged the government to engage in comprehensive consultations with parents and other key stakeholders before any implementation, emphasizing the need for a thoughtful approach that considers the well-being of the children involved.
Concerns were raised about the appropriateness of longer hours for young children, noting risks of exhaustion and insufficient facilities. Goundar highlighted that current conditions in some early childhood education centers (ECEs), where children have reportedly been seen napping on classroom floors, are not conducive to their needs. He called for an examination of the curriculum and overall readiness of schools to accommodate such changes.
The Education Minister, Aseri Radrodro, countered that extended hours can facilitate more structured play and learning, contributing positively to children’s development. He argued that such an initiative would provide families with a more convenient schedule for school pickups, thereby supporting working parents.
This discussion is further contextualized by ongoing concerns about facilities and resources that emerged in previous dialogues on the transition to full-day kindergarten, where parents had expressed fears of overcrowding and the impact on their children’s emotional stability.
As Fiji’s educational framework continues to evolve, it is imperative to balance the ambition of enhancing early childhood education with the realities facing students and educators. Engaging in open dialogue and addressing stakeholder concerns could lead to a more effective and nurturing environment for young learners, ultimately fostering their growth and development.
This situation reflects a broader movement in Fiji towards improving educational outcomes and can be seen as a hopeful step towards creating a system that better meets the needs of its youngest citizens, contributing to their foundational learning and long-term success.
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