Education Ministry outlines transparent Year 9 enrollment process in government schools

The Ministry of Education has reaffirmed that Year 9 enrollment in government secondary schools is carried out through a transparent and standardised process designed to ensure fairness, equity and access for all eligible students.

Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro said the selection framework combines academic merit with social considerations to ensure rural and disadvantaged students are not left behind.

“The Year 9 enrolment in all government secondary schools follows a transparent and standardized process to ensure fairness and equity,” Mr Radrodro said.

“Selection is based on academic merit, a minimum 250-mark benchmark, while also considering students from rural, maritime students who need boarding and socially disadvantaged backgrounds and social welfare referrals.”

He confirmed that the system also maintains specific quotas for key groups.

“Quotas are maintained for landowners’ children, alumni stakeholders, civil servants’ children, and cases affected by parental transfers. Day scholar placements prioritize feeder schools, siblings, and children of teachers,” he said.

Mr Radrodro added that the Ministry finalises and publicly releases the approved placement lists.

“Final lists are approved by the Ministry and publicly announced, ensuring an objective and accessible system for all eligible students,” he said.

The Ministry is expected to release additional placement updates as schools prepare for the 2026 academic year.