Two hundred teachers in Fiji are being positively impacted by the inaugural Access Teacher Training Workshop, an initiative supported by a US$40,000 grant from the United States. The workshop was launched by Stephanie Fitzmaurice, the Regional Public Affairs Officer at the U.S. Embassy, who emphasized the U.S. commitment to enhancing education and empowering educators. The focus of these workshops is on literacy training that aligns with Fiji’s new literacy curriculum for primary school students.

The sessions are being conducted in various training centers across Suva, Rakiraki, and Nadi, ensuring accessibility for teachers throughout the region. Esteemed facilitators, including Dr. Doaa Rashed from Rutgers University and local experts from Fiji’s Ministry of Education and the Australia-Fiji Program Support Facility, are leading the training sessions.

During the launch, Fitzmaurice praised the dedication of the teachers, highlighting their crucial role in making a tangible difference in classrooms across the nation. She urged continued investment in education, inspiring teachers to unlock new possibilities for Fiji’s youth.

In addition to this initiative, the English Access Microscholarship Program, which provides foundational English language skills to secondary students worldwide, showcases a broader commitment to education. This initiative, established in 2004, has benefited over 200,000 students across more than 90 countries, enhancing not only their communication and leadership skills but also opening doors to future academic and professional opportunities.

This positive development signifies hope for Fiji’s education system, reflecting a strong investment in teachers and the next generation. With such initiatives, there is a reinforcing message about the importance of quality education as a pathway toward personal and societal growth, promising a brighter future for students throughout Fiji.