Education - Foundation Programme: Success Rate of 76.4%
Title: Education - Foundation Programme: Success Rate of 76.4%
Content: The Foundation Programme in Literacy, Numeracy, and Skills, launched in January 2025, has just released its first results. Out of the 1,604 Grade 9 students who participated in the exams, 1,226 successfully passed, achieving a success rate of 76.4%.
Passing the Foundation Programme in Literacy, Numeracy, and Skills (FPLNS) allows students to obtain a National Qualifications Framework (NQF) certification, equivalent to the National Certificate of Education (NCE). According to programme coordinator Vijay Sookharee, students holding this qualification will be able to continue their training at a Mauritius Institute of Training and Development (MITD) center to obtain a National Certificate (NC) 3. Those who do not meet the expected results will also have access to the MITD but will be directed towards an NC 2 course.
The FPLNS replaces the Extended Programme, which was deemed inadequate by officials. This previous programme allowed students to follow the same curriculum as mainstream education but extended over four years to pass the NCE exams.
The new three-year programme aims for a more inclusive education that reflects real-life circumstances. It combines academic and vocational components, facilitating access to the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) pathway and, for those interested, to Polytechnics Mauritius Ltd for a higher diploma.
Objectives and Final Certification
The programme emphasizes essential skills in reading, math, and practical knowledge, aiming to reduce the dropout rate. It adopts a competency-based approach with personalized learning objectives.
Upon completion, students will receive the National Foundation Certificate of Education (NFCE), recognized by the Mauritius Qualifications Authority and issued by the Mauritius Examinations Syndicate (MES). To obtain it, they must maintain regular attendance and achieve at least an Intermediate level in one subject from each of the three clusters.
Assessment Method
Students are evaluated through:
- Short oral activities (reading aloud, discussions on a topic),
- Group practical tasks,
- Writing exercises,
- Mini-projects,
- Portfolios,
- Oral quizzes.
The assessment relies on a mixed system: continuous assessment and end-of-year exams, with grading based on competencies. Three performance levels are considered: Basic, Intermediate, and Proficient.
The Three Clusters of the Programme
- Cluster 1 – Functional Literacy and Numeracy: Strengthening reading, writing, and math skills essential for everyday life and academic advancement.
- Cluster 2 – Life Skills and Values: Developing social, emotional, and cultural skills, promoting responsible citizenship and personal well-being.
- Cluster 3 – Trade and Livelihood Skills: Introduction to technical and professional skills related to practical trades and vocational pathways.