The teacher pay increase of seven to 10 percent is based on the Ministry of Education’s financial capability. Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro clarified this when questioned about teachers’ reactions to their earlier proposal of a 30 percent pay increase.
Mr. Radrodro stated that the pay increase, effective today, aims to boost teacher morale. He expressed gratitude to the Coalition Government and the Ministry of Finance for facilitating the salary hike.
The increase will also benefit teachers who previously missed out on the regular pay adjustment process.
Despite not reaching the initial 30 percent request, feedback from the Fijian Teachers Union and Fiji Teachers Union has been positive, according to Mr. Radrodro.
He emphasized the importance of understanding that pay increases depend on the Government’s financial capacity.
“We are providing an increase based on our ability to pay,” he stated.
Mr. Radrodro also acknowledged the unions’ genuine concerns about improving teacher welfare, especially for those in rural areas, and suggested that there could be alternative ways to address these issues.
He highlighted the need for teachers to have a conducive environment for teaching and living during their tenure in any given area.