The free education initiative has been praised as a groundbreaking policy designed to give every child the chance to complete their education without the pressure of financial difficulties. However, the troubling figures of 5,726 secondary school dropouts and 4,589 unregistered primary school students from 2019 to 2023 reveal a concerning trend of neglect.
While the Ministry of Education has taken positive steps, including providing transport assistance and vocational education pathways, these concerning statistics highlight a grim reality—parents are not adequately fulfilling their responsibilities.
Education Minister Aseri Radrodro’s statements in Parliament should have resonated across every household in Fiji. However, rather than blaming external factors, parents must reflect on their own actions. Despite the government’s efforts to provide free schooling, textbooks, and transport assistance, thousands of students continue to fall behind.
The reasons given—migration, family issues, and the pursuit of jobs—only scratch the surface of a deeper problem. The fundamental issue is an inadequacy in valuing education and prioritizing the future of Fiji’s children. Many parents are quick to place blame on external forces instead of owning their part in this educational crisis.
A failure to emphasize the importance of education within families can lead to generations of children facing missed opportunities and challenging circumstances. Reverend Simione Tugi poses critical questions: “If this is what we are noticing, then what can we expect? Will we see an increase in youths on the streets committing crimes?” These concerns are no longer theoretical; they are becoming an alarming reality in Fiji. Unless families take responsibility, the nation will continue to struggle with soaring dropout rates, disenchanted youth, and a grim future.
It is imperative for parents to rise to the occasion, dedicate time, and prioritize their children’s education. The government has upheld its commitments, and now it is the parents’ turn to do the same.