The Fijian government, in partnership with UNICEF and the Australian Government, has launched the Yavutu Program, a significant initiative focused on enhancing foundational learning for children in Fiji. The program aims to ensure that every child has an equitable chance to excel in their early education from pre-primary to Year 3.
At the launch, UNICEF Pacific Deputy Representative Anna Smeby emphasized the importance of strong educational foundations, drawing a parallel to the stability required in buildings. She pointed out that many Fijian children aged 8 to 14 are currently struggling with basic reading and math skills, as highlighted by the LANA assessments and the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey. This initiative is a response to address those educational gaps, ensuring children are equipped for future success.
The Yavutu Program focuses on three pivotal areas: empowering teachers and learners, strengthening system capacity, and improving educational frameworks. It plans to provide teachers with essential training and resources to create inclusive and engaging environments while fostering closer connections between schools, families, and communities. Additionally, the program aims to ensure that national education standards embrace inclusivity and gender equality.
Tess McSpedden, Acting Counsellor for Human Development at the Australian High Commission, underscored the importance of early childhood education as a cost-effective investment for a nation’s future. She stated that inclusive learning environments, especially for children with disabilities, are critical for bridging the educational divide. Current UNICEF data indicate that while enrollment rates in Fiji are strong, 33% of children aged 7 to 14 still lack basic reading skills and 55% are deficient in numeracy skills.
Australia has contributed nearly $15 million through the Global Partnership for Education to support Fiji’s education reforms, including the Yavutu Program. McSpedden commended the Fijian government for its commitment to early childhood education, which is evident in various national policies, such as the National Development Plan and the Denarau Declaration.
Education Minister Aseri Radrodro acknowledged the urgent need to improve the educational landscape, lamenting that too many children fall behind before they even have a fair chance. The Yavutu Program is depicted as Fiji’s bold, evidence-based approach to tackle these educational challenges, ensuring that the youngest generation receives the foundational support necessary for a prosperous future.
This initiative demonstrates an optimistic trajectory for early childhood education in Fiji, indicating a collective commitment to nurturing the potential of every child. By focusing on foundational learning, Fiji aims to build a brighter and more inclusive educational environment that can pave the way for future generations.