Fiji’s Schools Face Crisis: Can Community and Vocational Training Turn the Tide?

The Fiji Principals Association is raising alarms about the increasing number of school-age children not attending school, which poses a significant challenge for principals nationwide. The association’s president, Kamlesh Prasad, underscored the need for collective efforts to address this issue during their recent conference and AGM.

Prasad emphasized that the Ministry of Education is currently discussing strategies to support students who struggle to meet the academic requirements needed to progress in their education. One potential solution involves establishing technical and vocational training centres aimed at providing alternative pathways for students who may not thrive in a conventional academic environment. This initiative aims to connect struggling learners with practical skills that lead to meaningful career opportunities.

There is a historical context to this situation, as a report from the Ministry of Education revealed that between 2019 and 2023, over 5,700 students dropped out before completing Year 10. Despite the government’s free education policy, many challenges, such as familial issues, migration, and a shift towards the workforce, have contributed to rising dropout rates.

To combat these issues, measures being discussed include enhancing parental engagement to encourage their children to pursue technical and skills-based education. Additionally, a strong focus is being placed on student assessments to improve educational outcomes.

This collective approach highlights the importance of not just government intervention but also family and community involvement in fostering a supportive educational environment. Encouraging parents to stay engaged with their children’s education can lead to a brighter future for these students, demonstrating that a partnership between schools and families is crucial for tackling the educational challenges they face.

The optimistic view is that by implementing these initiatives and focusing on vocation and practical learning, Fiji can inspire students to stay engaged in their education, ultimately benefiting the community and the nation as a whole.