Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has voiced his concerns regarding the no-repeat policy in the education system, arguing that it misuses resources for both the government and parents. This policy permits students to advance to higher grades regardless of their exam performance, which Mr. Rabuka fears could undermine the academic achievements of future generations.

His statements raise critical questions about the education system’s current state and the reasoning behind allowing students to move up without a firm grasp of essential skills. The implications of such a system could be detrimental; students might advance without the necessary foundation in core subjects such as mathematics, reading, and writing. Ratu Meli Saubulinayau, chairperson of the Lau Provincial Council, has also highlighted this issue, pointing out that students lacking basic skills could struggle with more complex subjects in higher grades.

In past discussions, educators noted a significant concern regarding students entering high school as non-readers or slow readers. These challenges have prompted questions about the effectiveness of the learning materials and the overall curriculum being used.

Investments made in the educational sector over the years call for reflection on what might have gone wrong. Collaboration between parents, teachers, and the community is essential to foster a stronger foundational education for children. The Prime Minister emphasized that it is vital for parents to guide their children and ensure that they do not advance without understanding the material.

Statistics from last year’s Year 8 exams reveal that out of 19,396 students, only 13,383 passed, indicating a significant number of students struggling early in their academic journey. There is an urgent need to advocate for improvements in the education system by promoting foundational learning in early grades and providing support for educators.

Discussions about education’s importance should be prioritized, focusing on strengthening early educational foundations in preparation for future academic pursuits. Encouraging family involvement, monitoring mobile phone usage, promoting reading, and addressing the wider context of educational challenges will all contribute to better learning outcomes.

The call to action is clear: let’s unite to enhance our education system and pave the way for successful academic futures for all students.

In summary, this article highlights the urgent need for a reevaluation of the education system, focusing on the consequences of automatic promotion and the importance of foundational skills, while also encouraging community and parental involvement in enhancing students’ educational journeys.