Nauru is embarking upon a landmark educational reform agenda with the aim of creating the “smart nation” of the Pacific.
The ambitious strategy will equip Nauru’s next generation of students – and those in the future – with the knowledge and education skills they need to bring future prosperity to them, their families and the nation.
President David Adeang said the strategy builds on a series of knowledge-based initiatives to build economic resilience.
“Nauru is at the forefront of innovation in the Pacific and we’re charting a course for future prosperity where education will be a key to success,” he said.
“Our greatest assets are our people and the government is determined to equip them with opportunities that empower them as individuals, while helping to generate national wealth.”
He said a major priority was to strengthen student engagement and attendance through practical measures including prioritising tertiary scholarships over secondary scholarships, which will “elevate the overall standard of education in Nauru.”
“An improved local education system will also give more Nauruan students access to international educational opportunities that are key to realising our ambition to be the Pacific’s ‘smart state’.”
Education Minister Asterio Appi said the development of a new Assessment and Curriculum Framework along with new teacher standards were other key planks of the government’s education reform agenda.
“We’re undertaking national exam analytics to ensure students are rigorously assessed so that they’re properly equipped to benefit from a truly world class education,” the Minister said.
“I’m absolutely determined to get more kids back in the classroom because that’s where they need to be if they want to succeed and contribute to Nauru’s future.
“That’s why we’re implementing stronger enforcement of compulsory attendance while at the same time encouraging parents to view themselves as a child's “first teacher”.”
Mr Appi said parents needed to set the right example and that there would be consequences for the small minority that don’t.
“New regulations under the Education Act allow for fixed penalty notices to be issued to parents for non-attendance and we won’t hesitate to enforce these regulations.”
In support of these initiatives, the Nauru government is also trialling an early warning system giving authorities the power of intervention for students considered ‘at risk’ of low attendance.
President Adeang said Nauru’s path to future prosperity through recent innovative initiatives including the passing of digital asset legislation and the climate resilience citizenship program must be backed up by a quality, home-grown education system.
“The Government believes that the true prosperity of our nation rests in the strength of our human capital,” he said.
“That is why we are committed to investing in and empowering our youth through quality education, robust healthcare, and opportunities in sports and personal growth.
President Adeang said, “By nurturing their talents, energy, and potential, we are laying the foundation for a nation that is not only financially stable but also resilient, united, and prepared to face tomorrow's challenges with confidence and pride.”