The Ministry of Education has disclosed concerning statistics regarding teacher absenteeism from 2022 to 2024, prompting serious worries about its effect on student education. During an inquiry from Opposition MP Premila Kumar, Education Minister Aseri Radrodro shared details on absentee rates for secondary school teachers in urban areas of Fiji.
These absences encompass various leave types, including sick leave, personal leave, and maternity leave. The Fiji Education Management Information System (FEMIS) is utilized by the ministry to track attendance, requiring schools to monitor teacher absences closely. Minister Radrodro remarked that a teacher having seven consecutive days of absence is treated as having resigned.
In response to this challenge, the ministry has devised a recovery plan offering afternoon and Saturday classes for students to address any educational gaps. However, the ongoing issue of frequent teacher absenteeism continues to pose a significant concern. The Fijian Teachers Association’s general secretary, Paula Manumanunitoga, highlighted the adverse effects on students’ academic performance, noting that such absenteeism disrupts lessons and leads to setbacks in key subjects, hindering student engagement and motivation. This issue is particularly pronounced in urban schools with larger class sizes.
Manumanunitoga emphasized that while teachers have the right to take leave, it’s crucial for them to recognize the vital role their presence plays in their students’ education. Muniappa Gounder, general secretary of the Fiji Teachers Union, also raised alarms about excessive leave taken by some teachers, calling for adherence to leave limits and legitimate reasons for absences. He stated that excessive absenteeism contributes to poorer student outcomes and encouraged teachers to exercise greater responsibility.
Both unions suggested several solutions, including hiring additional teachers, relocating educators closer to their homes, and increasing salaries to align with the rising cost of living. These measures, if implemented, could potentially mitigate the issue and improve the overall educational landscape in Fiji.
This situation, while alarming, provides an opportunity for reform and improvement within the education system. By addressing the root causes of absenteeism and fostering a culture of accountability among teachers, there is a chance for enhanced educational experiences for students. Positive change is achievable through collaboration between the government, teachers’ unions, and educational institutions.
In summary, while the statistics reveal a troubling trend in teacher absenteeism, they also highlight a pressing need for solutions that could ultimately strengthen the educational framework in Fiji, ensuring that students receive the quality education they deserve.
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