As the world marks International Literacy Day today, political party SODELPA has acknowledged Fiji’s overall progress in its literacy rate since independence.
“Overall, Fiji has done well since independence progressing its literacy rate to the current rate of 99.08 per cent,” SODELPA leader Viliame Gavoka said in a statement.
However, he said it was critical that “Fiji improves from the quantity spectrum to the quality aspect that is of great value to the country’s future development”.
Mr Gavoka said the party was concerned with the “deteriorating” educational system in the country, citing classroom congestions, absence of support for struggling students, and incomplete repair and restoration of classrooms, among other issues.
He encouraged students to continue their schoolwork despite the current COVID-19 crisis and to never give up.
“It is important to their future as well as our nation as they are the future of Fiji’s leadership.”
International Literacy Day was first commemorated in 1967.
Mr Gavoka said the day reminded people of the importance of literacy to individuals, communities, and societies towards self-development and nation-building.
