The Ministry of Education (MoE) has taken significant steps to bolster the teaching workforce, re-employing 286 educators following an increase in the retirement age from 55 to 60 years. This includes 19 Early Childhood Education teachers, 190 primary school teachers, 81 secondary school teachers, and 16 non-teaching staff, as highlighted in the ministry’s annual report for 2021–2023, presented to Parliament on May 8, 2025.
This initiative is part of a broader strategy to address critical workforce shortages and retain valuable, experienced educators within the educational system. Metuisela Gauna, a planning, policy, and research officer, reported that out of a planned workforce of 15,887, only 13,396 staff are currently active. The recent repeal of the ‘No Jab, No Job’ policy has allowed former employees to return, adding to the ministry’s efforts to enhance staffing levels.
In addition to the re-employment initiative, the ministry has continued various supportive programs, such as providing free textbooks, school transport assistance, menstrual hygiene support for girls, and a back-to-school $200 assistance for students. With a focus on improving early childhood education (ECE), the ministry plans to boost funding and potentially introduce pre-ECE programs for children from birth to school age.
These initiatives reflect a comprehensive commitment to investing in the educational framework of Fiji. Education Minister Aseri Radrodro previously emphasized the importance of retaining skilled teachers amid pressing challenges such as high failure rates in examinations and a concerning trend of educators migrating abroad for better opportunities. The ministry’s proactive measures highlight a hopeful outlook for the future of education in Fiji, fostering a robust system where all students have access to qualified educators.
The collaborative effort from various stakeholders is essential to ensure the success of these programs, ultimately benefiting the next generation of students.
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