The Fijian Ministry of Education has brought to light concerning statistics about teacher absenteeism between 2022 and 2024, which could significantly affect student education. In a response to Opposition MP Premila Kumar, Education Minister Aseri Radrodro presented data specifically regarding secondary school teachers in urban Fiji.
This absenteeism includes various types of leave such as sick leave, personal leave, and maternity leave, all monitored through the Fiji Education Management Information System (FEMIS). School administrators are tasked with overseeing attendance, and teachers absent for seven consecutive days are deemed to have resigned.
To mitigate the impact of teacher absences, the ministry has initiated a recovery plan, which includes offering afternoon and Saturday classes for students. However, the challenge of frequent teacher absenteeism continues to pose a serious concern.
Paula Manumanunitoga, General Secretary of the Fijian Teachers Association, highlighted the negative consequences absenteeism has on students, noting disruptions in lessons that lead to setbacks in fundamental subjects like mathematics and reading. He pointed out that these absences can also cultivate behavioral issues and decreased motivation among students, adding pressure on teachers who must fill in during these gaps. Observing that urban schools, with larger class sizes, suffer particularly from this issue, Manumanunitoga emphasized the importance of teachers’ presence for their students’ success.
Similarly, Muniappa Gounder, General Secretary of the Fiji Teachers Union, acknowledged the need for teachers to use their leave responsibly and not exceed reasonable limits, as such conduct can lead to poor student performance.
Both unions have proposed a range of solutions to address the absenteeism issue, including hiring additional teachers, relocating teachers to positions closer to their homes, and enhancing salaries to match the rising cost of living.
In summary, while the statistics indicate a significant concern regarding teacher absenteeism in Fiji, the proactive measures being taken by the Ministry of Education and the suggestions from teacher unions offer hope for improvement in the educational environment. By addressing the underlying issues and implementing these recommendations, there is potential for a brighter future in the education sector and better outcomes for students.
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