Schools in Fiji are facing significant challenges related to drugs, glue sniffing, violence, and negative social influences, which cannot solely be the responsibility of teachers to tackle. At a recent biennial conference in Nausori, Govind Singh, president of the School Management Association of Fiji, emphasized the urgent need for a more comprehensive educational approach aimed at developing students’ character.
Singh proposed that the upcoming budget should allocate funds towards a curriculum designed to enhance character development in students, which in turn could positively influence the nation’s future. He expressed concern over rising levels of violence and substance abuse among students, highlighting the need for schools to implement strong character-building initiatives.
Notably, Singh pointed out that around 90% of Fiji’s schools are managed by faith-based organizations, creating a unique educational landscape in the Pacific region. He stressed the importance of fostering relationships between schools and local communities to ensure that educational programs reflect community values and address their specific needs.
Singh also acknowledged the media reports regarding the troubling incidence of drug use among students, reiterating that it requires a collective effort from the entire community to effectively educate children. He noted that while teachers deserve recognition for their determination in such challenging environments, the strained relationship between school management and communities must be repaired for meaningful progress.
Additionally, Singh mentioned the commitments of the People’s Coalition Government to enhance democratic school governance and community engagement, though he lamented that some of the promised support structures have not yet materialized. He urged for the revival of the Education Forum, which has yet to be established, as a crucial step towards enhancing school-community collaboration.
Overall, the discussion highlights the need for a collective approach involving schools, families, and communities in addressing the complex issues facing Fiji’s education system. Such collaboration could foster a healthier, more supportive environment for students, paving the way for a brighter future.
In summary, the call for holistic education reflects a growing recognition that nurturing character and resilience in students requires the involvement of multiple stakeholders, with the hope that these efforts will help combat the negative influences affecting Fiji’s youth.
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