The increasing number of school-age children not attending school is a serious challenge for principals across the country, according to Fiji Principals Association president Kamlesh Prasad.
“There’s also a growing concern nationwide regarding students who are of school age but are not attending school,” he said.
“This is a new and serious challenge for principals across the country. We’re working together to find ways to manage it.”
Mr Prasad told the Fiji Principals Association conference and AGM that the Education Ministry was still in discussions on how best to support students who failed to meet the requirements to advance to the next academic level.
He said the ministry was exploring alternative pathways to help struggling students.
“The ministry is exploring the establishment of technical and vocational training centres to cater for students who struggle in the mainstream academic system.
“We’re also trying to work with parents to encourage them to support their children in pursuing technical and skills-based education, which can lead to meaningful career paths.”
Mr Prasad said a stronger focus had also been placed on assessments to help improve student outcomes.
