The general secretary of the Fijian Teachers Association, Paula Manumanunitoga, has highlighted a troubling trend where some primary students are entering secondary school without basic reading skills. He addressed this issue during the association’s Annual General Meeting in Suva this week, drawing attention to the concerning literacy rates among students transitioning from primary to secondary education.
Manumanunitoga reported that secondary school teachers have raised complaints regarding the reading abilities of their new students. He emphasized the importance of primary school teachers working harder to enhance literacy, recalling discussions with the minister on this matter.
He also noted that an overreliance on artificial intelligence is partially to blame, suggesting that while advanced technology can support teachers, it may hinder students’ critical thinking skills. “Some children may struggle to use their minds when everything is easily accessible,” he remarked.
Manumanunitoga pointed out that Fiji’s literacy and numeracy rates were significantly higher before the FijiFirst government took office. He expressed disappointment that Fiji has dropped from being the top performer in the Pacific to now ranking sixth or seventh. He also mentioned that other nations like Tonga, Samoa, Vanuatu, and the Solomon Islands have surpassed Fiji in literacy and numeracy.
He recalled that disciplinary measures in past years ensured students achieved good grades, sharing anecdotes of strict practices teachers employed to maintain discipline, which are no longer permissible.