Parents may face significant penalties under a new provision in the proposed Education Bill No. 34 of 2025, which mandates compulsory education for children. This clause was presented by Rakuita Vakalalabure, Chair of the Standing Committee on Justice, Law and Human Rights, to the residents of Nabukebuke, Namosi.
The bill stipulates that parents must ensure their children are enrolled and regularly attending school. If a child misses school without a satisfactory explanation, the Permanent Secretary for Education will have the authority to take action, which could lead to fines of up to $2000 or potentially serve as a basis for further legal proceedings if the issue persists.
Vakalalabure raised an important question regarding whether the government should cover the full costs of education if this legislation is enacted. Support for the bill was voiced by Petero Delasau, a former educator with 33 years of experience, who emphasized the need for accountability but also highlighted concerns about possible misuse of educational assistance. Delasau suggested the implementation of vouchers instead of cash payments as a possible solution to prevent misuse.
The Standing Committee is currently gathering public opinions on several legislative proposals, including the Education Bill, as well as the Referendum Bill and Criminal Records Bill, in an effort to engage the community in the legislative process. These discussions reflect a growing commitment to enhancing educational standards and ensuring that every child’s right to education is upheld. This proactive approach could lead to a more informed and responsible citizenry in the future.
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