THE Ministry of Education is exploring practical and effective ways to monitor school performance through district and divisional education offices, says Education Minister Aseri Radrodro.
Mr Radrodro said this during the opening of the TISI Sangam Fiji Heads of Schools and management seminar at the Tanoa Waterfront Hotel in Lautoka yesterday.
Mr Radrodro emphasised the need for accurate data from school leaders.
“We hope that as school heads, you have many roles, responsibilities, and requirements expected from you in your managerial role. One of those is filling out the ER5 and ER8 forms, and we need to ensure that the data recorded in those forms is accurate. There is still much to be designed,” he said.
Mr Radrodro said he hoped that such forums would lead to improvements.
“I hope that this kind of forum and consultation will help you improve your reporting practices and the completion of these forms. This way, we can make proper and informed decisions about schools in Fiji, including the TISI schools.”
Mr Radrodro pointed out key areas of progress for the ministry.
“As we started the year, we launched the General Declaration in 2023 and began implementing the Ministry of Education Strategic Plan for 2023 and 2026.
“We also finished the nationwide consultation on the review of the 1966 Education Act, which is now with the Office of the Acting Attorney-General. This review looked at important areas such as education access, curriculum development, governance, school facilities and teacher welfare.”
Mr Radrodro said the review was crucial for modernisation.
“This review was necessary to update the Act, tackle current educational challenges and opportunities, and address today’s needs while preparing for the future.”
Mr Radrodro also announced the creation of a new commission.
“We have also established the new Fiji Education Commission. This commission will thoroughly review the Fiji education system, covering early childhood education, primary and secondary schools, teacher training institutions, and technical vocational education and training. The Commission is currently in a phase of reflection and analysis.
“Commissioners are systematically examining all consultation findings, school visits, and research materials to identify key themes, patterns, and priorities that will guide evidence-based recommendations.”
Mr Radrodro said the appointment of the National Research Council is also coming soon.
“These changes aim to meet the needs of our rapidly changing world and better prepare our people for work and life.”
