The overall results of the Fiji Junior Certificate (FJC) examination for
fourth form students since 1975 have shown that Fijian students perform
as well as Indian students at this level. However, results of the higher
examinations such as New Zealand School Certificate and New Zealand
University Entrance, have shown that Fijian students achieve less well than
their Indian counterparts. The Fijians' high rate of underachievement
beyond the FJC level has caused much concern for many educators
because they believe that, if the rate of achievement for both ethnic groups
is similar at the FJC level, then, in theory, it should also be similar, at least,
at NZSC level. As it is, the differential in achievement between the two
groups is very pronounced.
Purpose of the Study
The purpose of this study was twofold:
1. to investigate the achievement dilemma stated above, and
2. to explore the possible factors that might explain the differences
in achievement between the two ethnic groups.