The Fiji Teachers Union (FTU) is pressing the government to address the serious issues of deteriorating school infrastructure and outdated facilities affecting various educational institutions. During a recent presentation to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Economic Affairs, General Secretary Muniappa Gounder highlighted critical concerns, including ageing buildings, overcrowded classrooms, and electrical hazards that compromise the safety of both educators and students.
Gounder emphasizes that the issues of crowded classrooms are contributing to health and safety risks, stating that in urban centers, class sizes often exceed 50 students, resulting in poorly ventilated spaces where movement is restricted. He outlined the risks posed by faulty electrical wiring and broken windows, which further exacerbate the already precarious educational environment.
In the wake of these challenges, the FTU is advocating for amendments to the Work Care Bill to include specific provisions aimed at ensuring workplace safety and compensation measures for teachers, reflecting a holistic approach towards educator welfare.
Similar concerns have been raised in previous reports, emphasizing the urgent need for infrastructure improvements as well as addressing the teacher shortage crisis faced by schools throughout Fiji. A report has shown that many schools are overcrowded, with nearly 70 percent of surveyed schools exceeding recommended capacity, as well as failing to meet essential health and sanitation standards.
The emphasis on political will is critical, as previous advocacy efforts have called for timely responses from the Ministry of Education to tackle these persistent issues. Gounder’s current push aligns with ongoing discussions about implementing a Teacher Protection Policy, which aims to create a nurturing and supportive teaching environment.
As these discussions advance, there is hope that collaborative efforts from the government, educational authorities, and community leaders will lead to significant improvements in school conditions, thereby enhancing the overall quality of education in Fiji. With constructive action, there is potential for creating safer, more conducive learning environments for both students and teachers.
Leave a comment