Recent statistics from the Ministry of Education reveal that there are currently 580 teacher vacancies in primary schools across the nation, according to Paula Manumanunitoga, the general secretary of the Fijian Teachers Association.
Manumanunitoga highlighted that many teachers are leaving the country in search of better salaries and working conditions. He stated, “We had a meeting with the Minister of Finance two months ago, but he does not seem to understand our concerns. Additionally, teachers are opting to work abroad.”
He emphasized the critical shortage of teachers in the country, citing the ministry’s data indicating 580 vacancies at the primary level. With approximately 736 primary schools in Fiji, each institution is reportedly short by two or three teachers.
Last year, it was reported that 172,023 students were enrolled in these primary schools, with 6,231 teacher positions filled and 184 remaining vacant. In secondary education, among 176 schools, there are currently 610 vacancies, including 64 vacant classroom teacher positions due to mismatched subjects and graduate qualifications.
Manumanunitoga urged the government to take responsibility for addressing this shortage. “I’ve heard that they are now asking teacher trainees to enter classrooms and teach. This is illegal,” he remarked. He also noted the pressing need for math teachers, stating that school administrators frequently request additional staff.
Currently, there are 138 secondary schools in Fiji, and the data reflects the increasing challenges faced in staffing these educational institutions.