The Fijian Teachers Association (FTA) has called for the abolition of the no-repeat policy in schools, arguing that it negatively impacts student performance. FTA general secretary Paula Manumanunitoga urged the Coalition Government and the Ministry of Education to seriously reconsider this policy, which automatically promotes students to the next grade each year.
Manumanunitoga stated that this practice has contributed to poor academic outcomes, resulting in Fiji’s decline from its previous top ranking in literacy and numeracy within the Pacific region to the sixth and seventh spots, respectively. He expressed disappointment that there has been no progress in addressing this issue since the new administration took office.
He highlighted that while the government may view the removal of the policy as an added cost, the FTA believes it is a necessary investment in education. He recounted how parents were willing to pay for their children to repeat a year prior to the policy’s implementation in 2008-2009.
According to Manumanunitoga, the introduction of the no-repeat policy has diminished parental engagement in monitoring their children’s academic performance since there is no consequence for underperformance. He emphasized that this shift has eroded parental responsibility and oversight in ensuring their children excel in school.
With a reported 4,589 students dropping out of primary school, Manumanunitoga argued that abolishing the no-repeat policy could help reduce this figure. He believes that renewed parental monitoring would enhance student learning, and teachers would be more attentive to the needs of repeaters, leading to improved academic achievement.
The FTA is urging for a swift rejection of the policy to restore Fiji’s educational standing in the Pacific. Despite inquiries sent to Minister Aseri Radrodro and permanent secretary Selina Kuruleca last week, no responses were received.
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