Empowered or Just Grass Cutters? The Plight of School Managers in Fiji

School managers in Fiji are facing significant challenges, as expressed by Govind Singh, president of the School Management Association of Fiji, during the association’s biennial conference in Nausori. Singh articulated the feelings of frustration among school managers who feel marginalized and misrepresented as mere “grass cutters” or “crooks.” He emphasized that these managers, who play a crucial role in the education system, have been stripped of their power to make decisions and are often excluded from important discussions about the institutions they helped build.

Despite changes in government, Singh noted that the negative perception of school management continues, which has led to feelings of alienation from their communities. He highlighted the past decade’s stagnation in school infrastructure development, with not a single classroom built independently by school management. The ongoing lack of empowerment and resources has raised concerns about the effectiveness of strategic planning when managers are not adequately supported.

Singh called for a renewed focus on professional development for school heads, suggesting that such growth would benefit the schools as a whole. He remarked on the need for comprehensive support systems that can equip school managers to fulfill their roles effectively.

Past endeavors of the association included helping schools navigate changes in regulations and ensuring that school management committees could operate efficiently, which underscores the important advocacy role they play. Moving forward, Singh emphasized the necessity for dialogue among school managers to refine their roles and functions in a supportive way.

This situation presents an opportunity for constructive change within the education sector in Fiji. By empowering school management and integrating their insights into strategic planning, the government can foster a more effective and collaborative educational environment. The commitment from the School Management Association to advocate for their needs paves the way for potential improvements and stronger relationships within the community.

In summary, the frustrations of school managers highlight a critical need for empowerment and recognition as vital contributors to the education system, which can lead to a brighter future for schools and students in Fiji.