Fode to introduce Gr 11, 12 courses

By PETER ESILA
THE Flexible, Open and Distance Education (Fode) will be introducing Grades 11 and 12 courses this year.
Fode principal Anthony Rayappan said the newly aligned curriculum would enable more than 23,000 students to sit for examinations and certified on successful completion of subjects, just as a school in the mainstream.
Rayappan told a workshop in Port Moresby yesterday as provincial coordinators met to chart the course for distance learners’ success.
“We want students to study the same curriculum that our students study in the main stream in the current school system.” Rayappan said.
“They should not feel separated or isolated,”
He said Fode aimed to update the provincial centres and study centres for improved procedures and processes to effectively deliver distance education.
“We are the leading distance education provider in the Pacific. For the first time Fode is implementing Grade 11 and Grade 12 courses, those who could not make it into main schools, they can always come to Fode.”
Rayappan said printing of course materials was the priority.
“It is a big challenge for us, we cannot assure printing materials to every student, we encourage students to take online courses through our website,” he said.
Education Secretary Dr Uke Kombra said the Fode component was part of the education system.
“Our objective is very clear, we must provide education to everyone and quality education to everyone,” he said.
“For Fode, we want to see that there is no one left behind.
“Everyone must be included and receive an education and achieve a better life.
“When we were working on the last education plan in 2004, we were writing this section on Fode.
“We put very clearly that one day we must have one examination, one curriculum.
“I am happy that this has come to pass.”
Kombra has challenged Fode for more marketing of vital services provided.