Muniappa Gounder, the general secretary of the Fiji Teachers Union, has advocated for extensive reforms in the education system, highlighting the critical role of parental involvement in children’s academic success.
This year’s Year 8 Examination results show a 69 percent pass rate, reflecting a modest 2 percent increase from the previous year. However, Gounder points out that the 31 percent failure rate indicates persistent challenges within the educational framework that need to be addressed.
He emphasized that while the government is providing free education, transport assistance, and back-to-school funding, many parents are not actively engaged in their children’s education due to work commitments, limited literacy skills, or indifference towards their school performance.
Additionally, Gounder noted that the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has worsened existing issues within the education system. Complications such as a demanding curriculum, educational setbacks from the pandemic, and language barriers contribute to prevalent learning gaps. The system also faces challenges like teacher shortages, inconsistent teaching quality, crowded classrooms, and insufficient facilities.
Moreover, students encounter behavioral issues, irregular attendance, and the distractions of technology and peer pressure, which further impede their learning. Gounder called on the Ministry of Education to enhance remedial education, improve teacher training, and promote greater parental involvement through community initiatives to mitigate these challenges.
Collaborative efforts among all stakeholders, including parents, educators, and the government, are essential to ensure improved outcomes for students across Fiji.
In summary, addressing these educational challenges with a joint approach between families and institutions can pave the way for a brighter future for the students, fostering a more supportive environment that encourages their growth and learning.
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