The main story featured in The Fiji Times on August 30 highlights significant challenges facing the education sector in Fiji. The country is experiencing a concerning trend of teachers leaving their positions, coinciding with a decline in the national literacy rate. Currently, there are 580 vacancies for teachers in primary schools, with increasing numbers of children entering high schools without basic reading skills, which is alarming.
Additionally, Westpac is expected to revise its growth forecast for Fiji in 2024, citing stronger-than-anticipated growth and sentiment within the tourism sector. During a media conference in Suva, the bank’s director and senior economist noted a marked increase in tourist numbers and positive feedback from clients.
The Fiji Teachers Association (FTA) has raised its voice on the pressing educational issues, pointing out that 580 primary school vacancies reflect a worrying trend of teachers seeking employment abroad. The FTA has expressed deep concern over the declining literacy levels among students and has labeled the situation as serious. FTA general secretary Paula Manumanunitoga highlighted that burnout, inadequate pay, overwhelming workloads, and difficult student behavior are pushing teachers to their limits.
It is particularly troubling that many primary school graduates are unable to read as they transition to high school, a situation that some may find embarrassing. Manumanunitoga attributed the reliance on artificial intelligence as a factor affecting students’ cognitive development, suggesting that many children are not engaging their minds adequately.
He also emphasized that literacy and numeracy rates were much higher before the current government took office, with Fiji previously leading the Pacific region. Over the years, countries like Tonga, Samoa, Vanuatu, the Solomon Islands, and Kiribati have surpassed Fiji in literacy metrics.
Addressing the exodus of teachers, Manumanunitoga noted that many are leaving for better salaries and working conditions, a situation exacerbated by parental absence and disengagement in children’s education. The current educational crisis requires immediate and concerted efforts to tackle teacher shortages, enhance working conditions, and prioritize literacy initiatives.
Recognizing the importance of education for national development, authorities are urged to unite and take decisive action to elevate educational standards in Fiji.