The Fijian Teachers Association (FTA) has expressed urgent concerns over declining literacy rates among students transitioning from primary to secondary school. Paula Manumanunitoga, the association’s general secretary, called on school leaders to be more present in classrooms and actively engage with teaching standards during a consultation in Suva. He emphasized that many children are not learning effectively, with some primary students entering secondary school lacking basic reading skills.

Manumanunitoga noted that the practice of automatic progression in schools, which allows students to advance grades regardless of academic performance, may have fostered complacency among students, teachers, and parents. Education Minister Aseri Radrodro echoed this sentiment, highlighting that this policy has contributed greatly to the current challenges facing the educational system.

The issue is dire, as recent discussions reveal students entering secondary education with insufficient reading abilities, prompting Manumanunitoga to criticize school heads for their detachment, accusing some of neglecting their duties by remaining confined to their offices. He pointed to alarming statistics indicating that Fiji’s literacy and numeracy rates, which were once among the highest in the Pacific, have significantly fallen. As of now, Fiji ranks behind several countries, including Tonga, Samoa, and Vanuatu, in terms of educational standards.

The situation has raised concerns about students’ over-reliance on artificial intelligence, which may be detrimental to their critical thinking skills. Manumanunitoga reflected on past educational practices, where strict disciplinary measures were employed to ensure students maintained good grades but are now frowned upon.

However, amidst these challenges, there lies an opportunity for growth. Manumanunitoga noted that addressing these issues requires a collective commitment to change—including fostering accountability, engaging parents in education, and implementing new approaches to teaching. The focus must shift towards creating a supportive environment in which every student can thrive.

This initiative represents a hopeful step toward meaningful reform in the education sector of Fiji. By emphasizing the need for foundational skills and a collaborative approach, education authorities aim to uplift the standards and ensure that every child is equipped for success in their academic journeys.