Education Minister Aseri Radrodro has clarified the critical functions of the Higher Education Commission (HEC) in Fiji, emphasizing its essential role in overseeing educational institutions. According to Radrodro, the HEC is responsible for ensuring compliance with the HEC Act and monitoring adherence to internal policies related to teaching hours.
In response to inquiries from Opposition MP Hem Chand concerning the consequences for institutions that fail to meet educational standards, Radrodro confirmed that the HEC possesses the authority to investigate any institutions that do not comply. He highlighted that while the HEC acts as a regulatory body, the responsibility for maintaining prescribed teaching hours primarily rests with individual institutions, which must manage these requirements through their own governance and quality assurance systems.
Radrodro underlined the necessity of upholding high-quality standards in educational programs, ensuring they are accredited and staffed by qualified personnel. He noted that the HEC is equipped to investigate any confirmed violations of its regulations.
These statements are a continuation of discussions in the educational sector focused on accountability among school leadership. Previously, Radrodro has asserted that school heads are entrusted with monitoring teacher performance, considering their qualifications and effective understanding of tailored teaching plans. He articulated the necessary teaching hours set forth: 20 hours for early childhood education, 35 hours for primary education, and 37.5 hours for secondary education.
Additionally, Radrodro addressed the ongoing challenges related to teacher shortages in certain subjects, attributing part of the issue to decisions made during Hem Chand’s previous tenure in the human resources department. He reassured that the government is actively working to recruit the necessary teachers to mitigate these shortages.
The government’s commitment to providing quality education and maintaining regulatory standards signals a positive outlook for Fiji’s educational system. Their approach to ensuring oversight and accountability from both the HEC and the institutions themselves reflects a larger initiative dedicated to fostering an environment of trust and responsibility. This ultimately serves to benefit students and elevate the overall quality of education throughout the nation.