A National Consultation is set to take place on January 16, 2025, at Suva Grammar High School Hall. This event aims to delve into the implications of repealing the “No Repeat Policy,” also known as Automatic Progression, which allows students to advance grades regardless of their academic performance.

Fijian Minister for Education, Aseri Radrodro, emphasized the importance of this consultation, noting that it will provide a platform for various stakeholders—including parents, teachers, student representatives, and education partners—to share their perspectives. Engaging a diverse array of voices is essential for achieving more equitable policy outcomes, according to Radrodro.

The discussion surrounding the No Repeat Policy has gained traction in light of concerning Year Eight exam results, where nearly half of the 19,350 registered students failed to achieve passing scores. This alarming statistic has raised significant questions about the effectiveness of the current education framework and its impact on student motivation. Radrodro stated that the Automatic Progression system has fostered a culture of complacency, whereby students may not feel motivated to exert the effort needed to achieve academic excellence.

This consultation will also align with the goals of Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4), which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education for all by 2030. Radrodro noted that quality education is pivotal in building a collaborative teaching-learning environment for students, parents, and educators.

Reflecting on the need for change, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and former Education Minister Ro Teimumu Kepa have championed the repeal of the No Repeat Policy in previous discussions. They expressed that allowing students to repeat grades when necessary can better equip them for future academic challenges, aligning with the belief that not all students learn at the same pace.

The upcoming National Consultation is a hopeful initiative that aims not just to critique the existing policy but to pave the way for reforms that enhance educational outcomes and better prepare students for lifelong success. By listening to the collective insights of stakeholders, there’s potential for meaningful dialogue that can reshape Fiji’s educational landscape for the better.