A call has been made for the new Education Act to ensure school dropout is prevented.
Raising his concern on the number of school dropouts in rural communities, Namataku District School trustee Joape Toailagi said the Education Act should strengthen its enforcement of the compulsory education provision in the legislation.
Mr Toailagi said there needed to be a firmer approach to ensuring students remained in school and completed their education.
“This is about the future of our children and making sure they complete school,” he said.
“The number of school dropouts in villages is very concerning and we need to do something to help these children.”
The Education Review Committee confirmed the compulsory education provision was included in the current Act.
However, the committee said they would take on board Mr Toailagi’s suggestion for a stronger approach to implementing the compulsory education provisions.
Ministry of Education head of research and policing unit, Metuisela Gauna said there could be room to carry out counselling sessions for parents and students, but if there were no other options, firm action must be taken against guardians or parents of the child.
The Education Act Review consultations continues in the Central Division from today.
