It’s that time of the year again, when our students go back to school around the country.
As we send our children off to school today, perhaps it is apt that we reflect on the year that was, and look forward with optimism this year. Let’s make it a positive term one for our children.
Understandably there would have been many last minute issues to attend to at the weekend, and yesterday. That’s part and parcel though of the beginning of a school year. It’s how it is in Fiji.
This first term should be about ensuring our children are prepared for classes and another journey of discovery in 2021. Last year was tough. There can be no doubts about that.
The global COVID-19 pandemic was challenging on thousands of families in Fiji. Around the world, the number of people affected by the virus continues to rise in the face of the vaccination effort.
Here at home, thousands of people have lost their jobs. Thousands of people are working reduced hours and many have had massive pay cuts.
More people are expected to lose their jobs as the weeks drag into months if things don’t change. In the face of this sits our commitment to ensure our children get the education they deserve.
That’s why it is important that we place appropriate emphasis on getting our children ready for school, and choosing this as a priority area this year.
Last year as the pandemic struck, our children were forced to stay home for a few months. Their education was greatly impacted. There were lockdowns, and a curfew is still in place in Fiji.
We are buoyed though by the fact that we are one of the few countries around the world that is COVID-contained.
That places us in a unique position as opposed to many of the developing nations around the world. However, the announcement of two more cases of COVID-19 must keep us focused on maintaining the status quo.
That should mean adhering to social distancing rules, and hoping our border quarantine facilities are intact, and our men and women on the frontline are vigilant always.
Back to education though, this is important for the development of any nation. It makes sense then that special attention is placed on it.
So let’s instill in our children a desire to learn. The base is set at home. Our children need support systems. They need encouragement, and they need guidance and motivation to do well at school.
Let’s lap up the State’s initiative on boosting the education budget over the years, and embrace the opportunity to be educated.
Let’s set the platform for our children to be motivated to do well this year. Thousands of students are back in class today.
Some first-timers would have had separation issues, placing pressure on their parents and guardians this morning. There would be uncertainty and anxiety.
We wish every student heading to school this morning, teachers, and parents and guardians, all the best in 2021.
