Nilesh Lal, the executive director of Dialogue Fiji, has voiced strong support for the Draft Education Bill 2025, particularly its firm stance against corporal punishment in schools. Addressing the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Justice, Law, and Human Rights, Lal emphasized the need for clearly defined alternative disciplinary measures. He stressed that consistent application of these measures is essential for fairness across educational institutions in Fiji.
“Any sanctions applied systematically must have clear definitions,” Lal noted. He underscored the importance of having detailed guidelines that specify the appropriate sanctions for various infractions, thereby ensuring uniformity in their enforcement across schools.
Pooja Dutt, Dialogue Fiji’s program manager, referred to the Bill as a “consequential reform” that will significantly shape educational governance in Fiji for years to come. She warmly welcomed the Bill’s Section 73, which mandates an outright ban on corporal punishment, categorizing it as a departure from not just physical punishment but also cruel or degrading treatment in any form, inclusive of emotional harm.
Dutt pointed out that this provision aligns Fiji with global standards and obligations regarding child rights, urging its retention in its current form. However, she also raised concerns about certain provisions that could compromise equity and legal clarity within the education system. Notably, she criticized Section 76, which permits government and aided schools to impose levies, arguing that this could undermine the constitutional guarantee of free education and foster inequality in schooling opportunities.
“The possibility of this provision could effectively distort the very essence of free education,” Dutt explained, cautioning that it might create a two-tier public education system based on community financial capabilities rather than educational equity.
Dialogue Fiji further highlighted the potential negative impacts of over-relying on fundraising initiatives, suggesting that incessant fundraising could burden families and lead to donor fatigue, regardless of coercion. In discussing compulsory education prescribed by Section 10, Dutt expressed concerns over the possibility of imposing fines or legal penalties on parents without clear guidance on obligations, which she argued conflicts with fundamental legal principles.
Moreover, the organization warned against the prohibition of school zoning, predicting that it may result in popular schools becoming oversubscribed while under-resourced schools struggle for enrollment, thus exacerbating educational disparities. They also noted concerns regarding Section 67, which lacks guiding principles for late admissions, risking inconsistent decision-making.
On a positive note, Dutt praised Section 34, which addresses religious instruction in schools, saying it strikes a fair balance between religious freedom and secular governance. Additionally, she commended regulatory flexibility under Section 68, advocating staggered school start times to alleviate urban congestion and enhance student wellbeing.
By addressing these issues proactively, Dialogue Fiji is hopeful that the Draft Education Bill 2025 can lead to a more equitable and effective education system for all students in Fiji.