Stronger education system, greater support for student success – Parag pledges

…as schools nationwide reopens today

Education Minister Sonia Parag has assured parents, teachers and students that schools across the country are prepared to welcome learners for the start of the 2026-2027 academic year today, as she wished all stakeholders the best for the new term. In a video message to parents and learners on Sunday, Parag said the new school year represents a fresh beginning for students entering nursery, primary and secondary schools. While acknowledging that the transition can bring excitement and anxiety for both children and parents, Parag encouraged the learners to embrace the opportunities ahead. “I welcome all of our beautiful babies back to school tomorrow. It’s a new beginning for our children and I don’t want them to feel intimidated; I don’t want them to feel anxious,” Parag noted. “As we get into our new school year for 2026-2027, to all of our babies who are coming nursery, primary, secondary, I want to welcome you. You will be meeting new friends and you will be creating bonds that may last a lifetime. Teamwork is a great thing. Always respect your teachers. Always respect your fellow students” Parag also recognised that returning to school after the holidays may not be welcomed by every child. She noted that while some students are excited about entering secondary school, younger children starting school for the first time may experience anxiety.

“I’ve spoken to some students, some of them are very excited about getting into high school, as we know it, and you know, you ask them, so why are you excited? And they tell you straight up, because I’m going to be a big boy or a big girl, you know, so they’re excited about going into that phase of their life,” she said. “And then you have nursery students who, of course, for the first time they’re coming into school and you will have that anxiety from both parents as well as their children. I would have experienced that a couple years ago, and you have this little, the strength of your heart, they’re tugged at when you drop off your children for the first time at school.” To the parents, Parag acknowledged that there would be challenges in getting children ready for school, including early mornings and traffic.