'Scrap Repeat Policy'

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and former Education Minister Ro Teimumu Kepa are advocating for the repeal of the controversial 'no repeat policy' in schools, urging that it be reviewed in light of recent Year Eight exam results.

The call follows a concerning revelation that nearly half of all Year Eight students failed their exams this year.

Of the 19,350 students registered, only 69 per cent passed an improvement of just two per cent from the previous year, meaning more than 6000 students will likely advance to Year Nine without mastering basic skills.

In an interview, Mr Rabuka expressed his opposition to the policy, suggesting it may be linked to schools prioritising funding over educational outcomes.

"Are schools simply trying to secure more government grants with little regard for academic results?" he questioned, emphasising the need for a deeper evaluation of the system.

He also pointed to the Fijian Teachers Association (FTA) as key in overseeing teacher performance and addressing these challenges.

Ro Teimumu Kepa added her voice, stressing that students should be given the chance to repeat grades when necessary.

"We cannot expect every student to learn at the same pace," she said, urging that repeating a year offers struggling students a crucial second chance to grasp the material.

"Failing a year doesn't mean failure in life; it's an opportunity to build a stronger foundation for future success."

Both leaders agreed that a review of the 'no repeat policy' is essential for ensuring students are better prepared for future academic and life challenges.

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