Two hundred educators in Fiji are gaining valuable skills through the inaugural Access Teacher Training Workshop, an initiative supported by a grant of US$40,000 from the United States. The U.S. Embassy’s Regional Public Affairs Officer, Stephanie Fitzmaurice, launched the program, emphasizing America’s commitment to enhancing education and empowering teachers.

The workshops, organized by the Fijian Teachers Association (FTA) Youth Wing, focus on literacy training tailored to Fiji’s new literacy curriculum for primary students. Sessions are conducted across various training centers in Suva, Rakiraki, and Nadi, ensuring broad accessibility for educators throughout the region.

Renowned facilitators include Dr. Doaa Rashed, an English Language Specialist from Rutgers University, Setareki Delana, Senior Curriculum Specialist from the Ministry of Education, and Torika Jitoko, a Literacy & Numeracy Coach with the Australia-Fiji Program Support Facility. During the launch, Fitzmaurice praised the dedication of the participating teachers, acknowledging their critical role in affecting positive change within classrooms across Fiji. She expressed hopes for continued investment in education as a means to inspire learning and unlock new possibilities for the youth.

This workshop is part of the broader English Access Microscholarship Program, which aims to provide foundational English language skills to talented secondary school students globally. Since its inception in 2004, the program has benefited over 200,000 students in more than 90 countries, fostering essential communication, leadership, and life skills that pave the way for future educational and professional opportunities.

The Access Teacher Training Workshop marks a decisive step toward improving educational standards and teacher capabilities in Fiji. By investing in educators, this initiative not only empowers them but also lays a foundation for a brighter future for the nation’s students, reflecting hope for continued progress and development in Fiji’s educational landscape.