Give more face-to-face class time, says Singh

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Fiji Teachers Union General Secretary Agni Deo Singh. Picture: RAMA/FILE

More face-to-face classes with teachers is needed if the Education Ministry wants to progress Year 12 students to the next level based on examination results, says Fiji Teachers Union (FTU) general secretary Agni Deo Singh.

“If the ministry wishes to strictly progress Year 12 students to Year 13 if they pass the external exam, they must be given more face-to-face class time with their teachers – considering the lessons missed out due to the pandemic,” he said.

Mr Singh was responding to comments by Education Ministry permanent secretary Dr Anjeela Jokhan that Year 12 students who failed external exams would remain in Year 12.

“Our information is that the alternative modes that were offered were far from effective.

“They (ministry) need to encourage teachers to come out with their frank view on the matter, rather than just telling them what to do.”

Renowned local psychotherapist Selina Kuruleca said while it was necessary to pass and do well, she questioned the rush to exams.

“Do we have any stats on what percentage of students actually had access to home learning worksheets?” she asked.

“How many completed the worksheets, and is there any data on internal assessment results?

“What happens to those that don’t pass and can’t afford to repeat?

“I think a conversation or forum for parents and stakeholders to address some of these issues with the ministry and PS is necessary.”

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