Adi Pasemaca Valalau from Naduri Village in Macuata emphasized during a recent Macuata Provincial Council meeting that children should not bear the blame for their academic struggles. This discussion centered around the 2024 Fiji Year 8 Examination results and took place at Sasa Village, where Valalau was one of the few female traditional leaders present.
Valalau pointed out that the frequent changes in the school curriculum, which have occurred three times over the past twenty years under three different education ministers, have led to confusion among students. She argued that because these shifts require teachers to adjust and learn the new material, there is a delay in effectively passing knowledge to students.
She lamented that parents today often find it difficult to assist their children with homework due to the evolving nature of schoolwork, stating, “Back in our day, what we learned in school were the same lessons we taught our children.” Unlike previous generations, many parents now feel disconnected from the educational material, leaving children without necessary guidance.
Valalau called for a review of the educational system rather than placing the blame on parents for their children’s academic failures.
This commentary sheds light on an important issue within the educational framework in Fiji. It underscores the need for more stable and consistent educational policies that empower both teachers and parents, ultimately benefiting the students. A collaborative approach—where educators, parents, and policymakers work together—could pave the way for a more productive learning environment and help students thrive academically.
In summary, the ongoing changes in Fiji’s educational curriculum impact students’ performance, and it is crucial for the system to be reviewed to better support both teachers and parents, which could lead to improved academic outcomes for children.
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