The gradual takeover of education in Fiji by the State has raised important questions. Much like a frog slowly becoming accustomed to rising water temperature, the small changes that have led to this situation have gone largely unnoticed. The Ministry of Education now completely oversees educational affairs, including teacher employment and placement, curriculum and examinations, building access, and operating costs. This educational framework utilizes privately owned properties without compensating the owners. In the pre-independence era, property owners had autonomy over curriculum choices, teacher employment, and school administration, with only minimal oversight from the colonial government. It is now crucial to examine whether it is fair and just for the State to occupy and operate on private premises without payment, as is expected for other State services.
In another matter, the ongoing crisis in Bangladesh was addressed, with Rakesh Chand Sharma suggesting that Rajend Naidu may not fully grasp the severity of the situation.
Additionally, a satirical fake report claimed UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer intended to imprison far-right rioters in the Falkland Islands, a UK territory far removed from the British Isles. Although the post, shared by Elon Musk, was quickly taken down, it highlighted the urgent need for caution against misinformation spread through social media platforms.
On a different note, there are concerns regarding the treatment of vendors at the Capital City market in Fiji, with reports of their struggles under harsh weather conditions and inadequate shelter. Isikeli Nakato Toroca expressed the urgency for city leadership to address these vendors’ challenges, particularly regarding their payment for stall space while facing unyielding conditions.
In sports, the controversy over whether Bucalevu Secondary’s under-17 rugby team should have participated in the Dean’s quarter-finals was discussed. Arun Prasad appreciated the Education Minister’s intervention but emphasized that rules should apply equally to all teams to maintain fairness in competition.
Lastly, Rajend Naidu pointed out the lack of swift justice regarding the case of suspended DPP Christopher Pryde, who has faced a prolonged wait of nearly 16 months for resolution, despite assurances from Prime Minister Rabuka that the cessation of salary was a mistake.