Concerns have been raised regarding the progression of students who failed their Fiji Year Eight Examination and other external examinations. Aseri Radrodro, the Minister for Education, highlighted this issue during an inquiry into the performance of students over the past eight years. He stated that there is a lack of sufficient data to determine whether students who did not pass their exams were allowed to advance to the next grade.
In a specific instance from last year, over 6,400 students did not pass the Fiji Year Eight Examination, yet no evidence has been presented to suggest that all these students were promoted to the next level. Radrodro expressed doubt about the effectiveness of the current system, noting that there has been no substantial proof of consistent progression for several years.
In response to these findings, the ministry is preparing a Cabinet paper aimed at revising the no-repeat policy, which allows students to automatically advance regardless of their examination results. Radrodro emphasized the importance of conducting thorough consultations regarding potential changes to this policy. Additionally, he mentioned the possibility of integrating Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) courses into the curriculum earlier, possibly in Year 8 or Year 9, as part of the potential reforms.
The proposed changes indicate a proactive approach to addressing educational challenges and ensuring that students receive the support and opportunities they need to succeed. By considering such measures, the education ministry aims to create a more effective learning environment that recognizes the diverse needs of students.
In summary, the Minister for Education is currently investigating the lack of data regarding the progression of students who failed crucial examinations, with plans to review the existing no-repeat policy and potentially introduce alternative educational pathways. This reflects a commitment to improving educational outcomes in Fiji.
Leave a comment