A National Consultation is scheduled for January 16, 2025, at Suva Grammar High School Hall, where stakeholders will come together to discuss the proposed repeal of the controversial ‘No Repeat Policy,’ also known as Automatic Progression. This policy allows students to advance to the next grade regardless of their academic performance, a practice that has raised concerns among educators and policymakers.

Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro emphasized the significance of this consultation, stating it will provide a platform for diverse voices—including parents, teachers, educational authorities, student representatives, and faith-based organizations—to share their insights and experiences. Radrodro highlighted that engaging various stakeholders is essential for achieving equitable policy outcomes, ensuring that all perspectives are taken into account.

The motivation behind this initiative stems from alarming statistics regarding student performance. In recent Year Eight exams, nearly half of the 19,350 registered students failed to achieve passing scores. This raises critical questions about the effectiveness of the Automatic Progression system and its impact on student motivation. The Minister noted that the current policy has fostered a culture of complacency, where students may feel less compelled to strive for academic excellence.

The consultation aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4), which promotes inclusive and equitable quality education for all by 2030. One of the main objectives of repealing the Automatic Progression policy is to ensure that students achieve the requisite competencies at each educational level before advancing, thereby reinforcing academic standards and accountability.

This movement for reform is echoed by key political leaders such as Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, who advocates for a more rigorous education system that allows students to repeat grades when necessary. Such a policy shift reflects an understanding that not all students learn at the same pace and that struggling students might benefit from additional time to master their subjects.

The upcoming National Consultation represents a hopeful opportunity for meaningful dialogue and reform in Fiji’s educational landscape. Engaging a wide range of stakeholders could lead to significant changes that better support student achievement and engagement, ultimately fostering a more effective and inclusive education system. There is optimism that these discussions will contribute to creating a brighter future for students across Fiji, empowering them to reach their full potential in their academic and personal lives.