The rising rate of school dropouts has prompted the Fiji Teachers Union (FTU) to call for a review of the school curriculum, according to General Secretary Muniappa Gounder. He emphasized that today’s children are quickly losing interest in their studies, highlighting the need for a more engaging curriculum that resonates with students.
Mr. Gounder remarked, “Children are losing interest in school daily,” urging the Ministry of Education to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the curriculum to ensure it is relevant, local, and relatable for students.
Education Minister Aseri Radrodro recently disclosed that from 2019 to 2023, 5,726 students dropped out before completing Year 10. While the specific reasons for these dropouts remain unclear, common factors reported at schools include death, migration, movement from public to private schools, and health issues.
“We don’t want a curriculum that is based overseas, where children find it difficult and quickly lose interest,” Mr. Gounder stated. He noted that as digital natives, children should be offered digital learning opportunities, which he believes is the future of education. “They want their school experience to be engaging, and the teaching methods need to capture their interest. Absenteeism has been rising due to a lack of engagement.”
Additionally, Mr. Gounder suggested that government support may be contributing to a lack of motivation among students. He argued that parents often do not take their responsibilities seriously because they are “spoon-fed” by government assistance. He emphasized, “When you invest your money into something, you will always encourage your children to work hard so that your investment is not in vain.”
Reflecting on past experiences, he noted that earlier generations were motivated by their parents’ sacrifices for education, whereas many current parents may not be as committed. “Now, parents are relaxing on their laurels. They do not really take their responsibilities seriously. Most parents become lazy and do not bother with what their children do, there is definitely a lack of commitment.”
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