Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and former Education Minister Ro Teimumu Kepa are calling for a reassessment of the contentious ‘no repeat policy’ in schools, following troubling Year Eight exam results that showed nearly half of the students did not pass.
Out of 19,350 registered Year Eight students, only 69 percent achieved a passing grade, which represents just a two percent improvement from the previous year’s figures. This trend suggests that over 6,000 students may progress to Year Nine without having mastered essential skills.
Rabuka expressed concern over the policy, suggesting it may incentivize schools to prioritize securing government funding rather than focusing on student performance. He raised a critical question about whether schools are choosing financial gain over the academic welfare of their students. Furthermore, he highlighted the Fijian Teachers Association’s role in monitoring teacher effectiveness and resolving educational issues.
Echoing these sentiments, Kepa emphasized the importance of allowing students the opportunity to repeat grades when necessary. She argued that not every student learns at the same speed and that giving struggling students a chance to retake a year is vital for their long-term success. “Failing a year doesn’t equate to failing in life; it is an opportunity to build a stronger educational foundation,” she stated.
Both leaders are united in their belief that revisiting the ‘no repeat policy’ is crucial to better equip students for future academic and life challenges.
This conversation surrounding educational reform signifies a growing awareness and willingness among leaders to address pressing issues in the schooling system. By advocating for more flexible educational pathways, the possibility emerges that future generations will receive the support they need to thrive academically and personally. Ensuring that all students have a solid foundation will ultimately contribute to a more educated and capable society.
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