A primary school teacher from Nadi is calling on the Fijian government to integrate indigenous philosophical frameworks into the nation’s education curriculum. Laisani Nasenikarawa brought up this significant issue during a public consultation on the review of the Education Act 1996.
Nasenikarawa expressed her concerns regarding the heavy reliance on Western philosophies in the current curriculum, suggesting that such an approach may not fully resonate with Fiji’s cultural context. She stated, “I believe we should not rely mostly on Western philosophy. We should design our own, as indigenous people, in a way that suits our context.” This call for a more culturally relevant curriculum underscores a growing sentiment among educators advocating for necessary reforms in Fiji’s educational practices.
The voice of Nasenikarawa resonates with recent conversations among educational leaders about the urgent need for curriculum review to better align with students’ and community needs. Govind Singh, president of the School Management Association of Fiji, has emphasized the importance of incorporating local knowledge and values into the education system. Moreover, earlier discussions have suggested that integrating technical and vocational training from a young age could enhance students’ engagement and prepare them for diverse career paths.
Given that the Ministry of Education has acknowledged the need for a curriculum overhaul, Nasenikarawa’s suggestions could play a pivotal role in shaping a more relevant and inclusive educational framework. This approach could see local communities benefiting from incorporating traditional knowledge systems while fostering a stronger sense of identity among students.
In the broader context, such educational reforms could also address challenges highlighted by other educators regarding student performance and the pressures faced by both teachers and parents in adapting to frequent changes in the curriculum. By working alongside community leaders and educators, there is potential for collaborative action that could lead to a more robust education system that meets the evolving needs of Fiji’s youth.
Overall, this call for integrating indigenous perspectives not only reflects a desire for cultural relevance in education but also points towards a hopeful future where all children can thrive in an environment that honors their heritage.
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