Fifty early childhood educators are set to leave for higher-paying teaching positions by the end of the month, according to Paula Manumanunitoga, the general secretary of the Fijian Teachers’ Association. Manumanunitoga revealed that these teachers have received job offers from Australia, which promise permanent residency after three years. He noted that last year, 100 qualified early childhood education teachers left Fiji for similar opportunities.
The association has voiced strong opposition to utilizing final-year tertiary students to fill the gaps in the education sector. Manumanunitoga stated that if a strike occurs next week, parents are likely to support their cause, emphasizing the seriousness of the issue. He criticized local leaders, including Biman Prasad and the Prime Minister, for not addressing their concerns.
He pointed out that teachers in Fiji earn between $14,000 and $18,000 annually, while overseas opportunities in Australia offer salaries ranging from $60,000 to $90,000 in Australian dollars.