School counselors need to have a strong spiritual foundation to effectively address the psychological challenges faced by teachers, according to Netani Druavesi, president of the Fijian Teachers Association (FTA). His comments were made in response to remarks from Pastor Nasoni Lutunaliwa of the Seventh-day Adventist Church during his sermon at the opening of the FTA’s 90th annual delegates conference held at the Suva Civic Centre.
Pastor Lutunaliwa shared an experience involving his wife, a teacher who has been impacted by a negative school environment, stating, “At times she cries, not for our children but for her students.”
Druavesi emphasized the need for counselors at schools to adopt a spiritually enriched approach in their roles. He noted, “While we once had counselors in our schools, the FTA now believes those in the role must be spiritually filled.”
He added, “In these challenging times, we must turn to the word of God as there is no other solution. The regulations and rules imposed by the government have constrained teachers’ abilities to respond effectively. The foundation must start in our homes, which is the first classroom.”
Druavesi also mentioned that the association follows a specific policy for handling recent cases involving teachers and students. “Our members remain part of the union until proven guilty,” he stated. “Communication is key, especially in cases involving a teacher and a student. Unlike the past, we don’t jump straight to suspension or demotion.”
He affirmed that the association is actively engaging with the Education Ministry and relevant stakeholders on these matters.