The Permanent Secretary for Education, Ms Selina Kuruleca, officially launched the 2024 IQ Active Competition at Jai Narayan College today.
As Fiji’s largest national secondary schools general knowledge quiz competition, IQ Active Competition is set to inspire students nationwide. This year’s competition includes 50 high schools from across the country. Among the participating schools are Ratu Finau Secondary School, Gau Secondary School, Adi Maopa Secondary School, Koro High School, and Kadavu Provincial School.
PS Ms Kuruleca reflected on a similar event, the National Quiz, and highlighted how such competitions are crucial for boosting academic engagement.
”This is exciting and I am delighted to be part of this event this morning as I can vividly recall that in my secondary school days the competition then was known as the ‘National Quiz’ translated as ‘Na Kilakila Mada in Vosa Vakaviti and ‘Akhitna Jantahe, ” in Hindi.
“This competition should encourage and nurture critical thinking. Instead of always thinking about a problem in 1 way, you need to be challenged to think critically and creatively, enhancing your problem-solving skills and intellectual capabilities. Read up and study as you normally would, and then think creatively and critically on best possible solutions.’’
PS Ms Kuruleca conveyed her heartfelt congratulations and a warm vinaka vakalevu to Fiji TV for their commendable efforts in reaching out to children from various and remote areas, including maritime schools.
“In an era of overwhelming social media use, where reading and research are often overlooked in favor of scrolling through the internet, this IQ Active competition provides an opportunity for students to learn and research, thereby growing and developing their knowledge and skills in the process.Participating in IQ Active should boost your self-esteem and confidence by showcasing your skills and knowledge in a competitive environment.”
“I congratulate the participating schools. We also acknowledge you our teachers, management, and parents for supporting their journey.”
In her closing remarks, the Permanent Secretary advised, “Listen attentively, think critically, propose solid solutions, and clearly articulate your answers. I wish all the teams the best of luck, may the best team win.
PS Ms. Kuruleca ended with a quote from Thomas Edison “There is no Substitute for Hard Work.”
