Secretary for Education Dr Uke Kombra has reassured parents, teachers, and communities that high educational standards will continue, despite the phasing out of Grade 8 and 10 selections.

Examinations and assessments will remain in place to measure student performance and provide data to improve teaching.

Dr Kombra said the reform does not lower standards but ensures that students are not labelled as failures at a young age. FODE programs will continue to support students needing flexible schedules or additional learning options.

“This reform is about giving every child the opportunity they deserve to reach their full potential. By removing selections at the end of Grade 8 and 10, we are taking a bold step towards a fairer and more inclusive education system. No parent with the right mind will want 73,500 of their 13- or 15-year-old children to be dropped out of school and labelled as failures,” Dr Kombra said.

He acknowledged challenges in implementation but emphasized that with the support of parents, teachers, and stakeholders, the vision of a more equitable and modern education system is achievable.

“Education reform is never easy, but it is necessary for the progress of our nation,” he concluded.

The Department of Education will continue engagement programs, teacher orientations, and awareness campaigns to support smooth implementation of the reforms nationwide.