Opposition MP Premila Kumar has expressed serious concerns regarding the Prime Minister’s recent decision to assume direct control over a national educational institution. She has raised alarm over the implications this move has for governance, accountability, and the potential for political interference within the educational sector.
In her statement, Kumar emphasized that educational institutions ought to function independently and be managed professionally, devoid of direct political influence. “Education is too important to be politicised,” she asserted, while stressing that any intervention from the Prime Minister should be well-justified and time-limited.
Kumar acknowledged that while reforms may be necessary in certain cases, circumventing established governance structures could set a troubling precedent for future operations. She argued that if there are genuine governance or performance problems, they should be resolved through transparent processes rather than a unilateral executive takeover.
Moreover, Kumar questioned the rationale behind excluding the relevant ministry and statutory boards from their oversight duties. “The public deserves clarity on what went wrong, who is responsible, and why existing accountability mechanisms were deemed insufficient,” she pointed out.
She has called on the government to disclose comprehensive details regarding the decision, including its legal foundations, the anticipated duration of this takeover, and the specific goals it aims to achieve. Kumar stressed that the rejuvenation of confidence in Fiji’s education sector hinges on stability, independence, and the respect for institutional autonomy, especially as the nation seeks to rebuild trust in its public institutions.
The Opposition MP has urged the government to reconsider this controversial move and to ensure that any reforms align with democratic principles and good governance practices. There is a collective hope for a more transparent approach that fosters trust and stability within the educational landscape of Fiji.