Classroom Crisis: Are Fiji’s Students Falling Behind?

Primary school students in Fiji are facing significant learning gaps due to prolonged periods without a teacher, according to Johnson Rura, president of the Fiji Head Teachers Association. Speaking at the 41st Head Teachers Association Conference in Nadi, Rura highlighted that this situation adds extra pressure on school heads. He noted that the need for teacher assistants has also become critical, stating that discussions have taken place but no action has yet been implemented. Furthermore, Rura proposed extending the probation period for new graduates from the current two months to one year to better prepare them for their roles in the classroom.