The Fijian Teachers Association has reported that the lack of parental involvement at home is a significant factor contributing to declining literacy rates among students. General Secretary Paula Manumanunitoga shared these concerns during the association’s annual general meeting on Tuesday, highlighting that many high school teachers are alarmed by the number of students transitioning from primary school who are still struggling with literacy.
Manumanunitoga emphasized that parental engagement is crucial, stating, “It all starts from home.” He acknowledged the role teachers must play alongside guardians to facilitate support for children. He pointed to low morale among teachers as a primary issue, noting that they are often overworked and underpaid, which adversely affects their performance.
He highlighted the demanding work hours teachers endure, arriving at school by 7:30 AM and frequently leaving around 6 PM, in addition to participating in extracurricular activities yet lacking appropriate compensation. Manumanunitoga expressed frustration at the government’s failure to address these concerns.
He also observed that many parents are preoccupied with other commitments, leading to their absence during critical hours when children come home, particularly within the iTaukei community. He reiterated that the financial and morale issues faced by teachers are central contributors to the troubling trend in literacy rates in Fiji.