Social Democratic Liberal Party Leader Viliame Gavoka says they will eliminate the Tertiary Education Loan Scheme (TELS) if they are voted into Government after this year’s General Election.

Gavoka said when a nation is well educated, it has the capacity to maximise the use of resources to achieve a meaningful life and the gains are much higher.

“We are adamant that the simplest form of repayment on tertiary education loan scheme is debt forgiveness’s It can do this immediately after elected into Government.,” he said.

“It can do this immediately after elected into government. We recognise the need to lift the burden of tertiary education loan scheme debt inflicted on its beneficiaries.

“On the other hand, we will introduce free education at tertiary level institutions up till first degree level. Recipients will be monitored on their performance,” he said.

He said provision for quality education is crucial to enhance social and physical development. However, it has been continuously challenged, and that needs to be overcome.

“To achieve the development outcomes of the sector, it is important that a participatory and inclusive mechanism is available for consultation and dialogue,” he said

“We will address the shortage of technical skills in our job markets, we will fully review the Fiji National University and the management of the organisation.

“Fiji has done well since independence by progressing its literacy rate to 99.08 percent, however it is critical that Fiji shifts from the current quantity spectrum to the quality aspects.

“Tertiary Institutions detected a decline in the average standard of literacy and numeracy that were completing secondary schools.

“Hence the University of the South Pacific lowered its basic qualification criteria. Their marketing strategy was geared to attract a larger quantity of students,” he said.

He said the education quality standards' reform will be introduced and monitored to ensure there is quality education standards being provided.

By Nacanieli Tuilevuka