Seven pre-primary schools in Fiji, including five located in Suva and two in Nadi, are currently facing challenges in implementing the new full-day Early Childhood Education (ECE) program. These schools are constrained by issues related to space and infrastructure and have opted to continue operating split sessions while working on improving their facilities to eventually transition to full-day learning.
Education Minister Aseri Radrodro noted that around 875 registered pre-primary centers across the country had started the phased transition to the full-day ECE program as of last Friday. This significant shift aims to enhance access, equity, and continuity in early learning. Radrodro highlighted that the move would allow children and teachers to engage in enjoyable, play-based learning activities, promoting creativity, social and emotional development, and reducing passive screen time.
Parents can collect their children earlier if necessary, but educators will be required to work full-time hours, allowing them to prepare lessons effectively. The Minister urged school heads to ensure strict adherence to the extended teaching hours.
This initiative is rooted in a policy developed in collaboration with UNICEF, targeting five-year-old children in the year before they enter primary school. The full-day model could potentially address issues highlighted in previous articles regarding the transition, particularly those from parents who worry that overcrowded classrooms and inadequate facilities may affect their children’s emotional and social well-being.
Overall, this shift towards full-day ECE signifies a commitment to improving educational standards in Fiji. Though challenges remain, the initiative provides a hopeful outlook for the future of early childhood education, aiming to create a nurturing environment where young learners can thrive and develop essential skills for their future.
Leave a comment