Two hundred Fijian teachers are participating in the inaugural Access Teacher Training Workshop, an initiative funded by a $40,000 grant from the United States. Launched by Stephanie Fitzmaurice, the Regional Public Affairs Officer at the U.S. Embassy, the workshop highlights the U.S. commitment to enhancing education and empowering teachers in Fiji.

The Fijian Teachers Association (FTA) Youth Wing has organized these workshops specifically for English teachers, focusing on literacy training aligned with Fiji’s new literacy curriculum for primary education. Training sessions are being conducted across various centers in Suva, Rakiraki, and Nadi to ensure broad accessibility for educators.

Facilitators include esteemed professionals such as Dr. Doaa Rashed, an English Language Specialist from Rutgers University, alongside experts from Fiji’s Ministry of Education and the Australia-Fiji Program Support Facility. Fitzmaurice commended the dedication of the teachers, stating that their hard work is making a tangible difference in classrooms throughout Fiji. She emphasized the importance of continued investment in education to inspire learning and unlock new possibilities for the youth of Fiji.

In conjunction with this workshop, the English Access Microscholarship Program aims to equip talented secondary school students worldwide with foundational English language skills, enhancing their communication and leadership capabilities. Since its inception in 2004, this program has benefited over 200,000 students across more than 90 countries, fostering pathways to improved educational prospects and global engagement opportunities.

Overall, initiatives like the Access Teacher Training Workshop are vital for the ongoing development of the educational landscape in Fiji. They reflect a strong commitment to teacher capacity building and highlight the importance of quality education as a means to foster personal and societal growth. This positive movement not only supports the teachers directly involved but also promises a brighter future for Fiji’s students as they gain access to better educational resources.