THE School Management Association of Fiji has welcomed the passage of the Education Bill 2025, saying concerns raised by some politicians over education funding are “hypothetical and unfounded”.
Association president Govind Singh said Fiji’s education system was unique, with faith-based organisations and independent communities owning, managing and operating the vast majority of schools across the country.
“It is important to note that Fiji has a unique education system in the world where 96 per cent of schools are built, managed and operated by faith-based organisations and independent communities,” Mr Singh said.
He said school management committees had for decades contributed voluntary labour and oversight to ensure schools continued to deliver quality education.
“Our schools are strongly multiracial in spite of maintaining their special character.”
He said government grants alone had never been sufficient to build and maintain educational facilities.
“Anyone who is involved in building and managing schools is very well aware that government funds have never been enough to build and sustain schools.” he said.
He argued that previous restrictions on fundraising had contributed to overcrowding and inadequate learning environments, affecting the quality of education.
Mr Singh thanked Education Minister Aseri Radrodro for finalising the Bill following what he described as a rigorous consultation process.
“I hope politicians will not instil unfounded fear in public about education funding.”
