The Ministry of Education has presented concerning statistics about teacher absenteeism from 2022 to 2024, which poses significant challenges to the educational experience of students in Fiji. This data was revealed by Education Minister Aseri Radrodro in response to a question posed by Opposition MP Premila Kumar, specifically focusing on secondary school teachers in urban areas.
The statistics, which include various forms of leave—such as sick, personal, and maternity leave—are tracked by the Fiji Education Management Information System (FEMIS). It is mandatory for schools to monitor teacher attendance closely. According to the minister, if a teacher is absent for seven consecutive days, they are effectively deemed to have resigned.
The Ministry has initiated a recovery plan that includes supplemental afternoon and Saturday classes to help students make up for learning lost due to these absences. Nevertheless, the ongoing issue of frequent teacher absenteeism is a critical concern, as highlighted by the general secretary of the Fijian Teachers Association, Paula Manumanunitoga. He noted that frequent absences disrupt lesson continuity, especially in essential subjects like mathematics and reading, while also impeding student engagement and causing behavioral problems.
Mr. Manumanunitoga, drawing from over a decade of experience as a school principal, emphasized that while teachers are entitled to take leave, it is vital for them to recognize the importance of their presence in the classroom for the benefit of students. Similarly, Muniappa Gounder, general secretary of the Fiji Teachers Union, expressed concern about excessive time off, urging teachers to adhere to leave limits and provide valid reasons for their absences.
Both unions have proposed potential solutions to tackle this issue, such as hiring more educators, relocating teachers nearer to their homes, and adjusting salaries to better reflect the rising cost of living.
The situation represents both a challenge and an opportunity for improvement in the education sector. By taking the necessary measures to address teacher absenteeism, the Ministry of Education can enhance the quality of education for students, ultimately fostering a more engaged and motivated teaching workforce.
In summary, while the issue of teacher absenteeism presents challenges, it can also be viewed as a pivotal moment for reform in the education system, leading to potential improvements in student academic performance and teacher accountability.
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