Concerns have surfaced in Fijian Parliament regarding the prolonged delay in releasing a crucial report by the External Review Committee, which has been evaluating the performance of the nation’s three principal universities for over 18 months. Opposition Member of Parliament Hem Chand has pressed Education Minister Aseri Radrodro to clarify the reasons behind the extended wait for the report, expressing worries over transparency and the credibility of the entire review process.
Responding to these concerns, Minister Radrodro acknowledged the ongoing task of collecting feedback from the universities involved. He indicated that the initial report has been submitted and is currently being reviewed by the institutions for their comments, describing the process as “a work in progress”. He assured that once finalized, the report would be presented to the Cabinet.
The focus of the review is on key aspects such as academic quality, operations, and institutional governance at Fiji National University, the University of the South Pacific, and the University of Fiji. During recent sessions, issues raised by the universities about the report’s methodology and professionalism have also come to light. There are discussions about potentially appointing an independent individual to reassess the report given these significant concerns.
This situation echoes previous discussions about the integrity of the reviews being conducted across Fijian universities. Reports have indicated that there may be flaws in the methodology used and highlighted the importance of accountability and transparency in the review processes. Such initiatives aim to enhance educational quality and institutional governance, as Fiji’s higher education landscape continues to evolve under scrutiny.
The ongoing discourse signals a commitment to improving educational standards and addressing integrity issues in the sector, which aligns with a broader vision for reform in Fiji’s education system. The review’s results, once finalized, could contribute to fostering a more credible educational environment and ultimately benefit students across the nation. As stakeholders work together to navigate these challenges, there remains hope for positive change in Fiji’s higher education framework.
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