The Ministry of Education in Fiji has highlighted serious concerns surrounding teacher absenteeism, presenting statistics that reveal an alarming trend from 2022 to 2024. These figures were brought to light by Education Minister Aseri Radrodro in response to inquiries from Opposition MP Premila Kumar, focusing specifically on secondary school teachers in urban areas.
The data indicates various types of teacher absences, encompassing sick leave, personal leave, and maternity leave, which are meticulously monitored through the Fiji Education Management Information System (FEMIS). Under the current policy, school heads are advised to keep a close watch on attendance, with a teacher absent for seven consecutive days considered to have resigned.
In a proactive stance, the ministry has initiated a recovery plan that includes offering additional afternoon and Saturday classes, aiming to help students recover any lost educational time due to these absences. However, the persistent issue of frequent teacher absenteeism poses significant challenges to the educational experience.
Paula Manumanunitoga, general secretary of the Fiji Teachers Association, emphasized the negative impact on students, noting how such disruptions hinder learning outcomes in vital subjects such as mathematics and reading. This not only affects academic performance but can also lead to behavioral issues and diminished motivation among students.
Echoing these concerns, Muniappa Gounder, general secretary of the Fiji Teachers Union, pointed out that while leave is a right for teachers, excessive absenteeism is counterproductive. He called for a more responsible approach, urging educators to adhere to leave limitations and provide valid justifications for their time off.
To tackle absenteeism effectively, both unions have proposed actionable solutions, such as increasing teacher recruitment, offering transfers closer to home, and raising salaries to align with the current cost of living.
While the situation is concerning, the ministry’s efforts to address these challenges through additional classes and heightened oversight reflect a commitment to enhancing students’ educational outcomes. By focusing on solutions and encouraging teacher responsibility, there is potential for significant improvements in teaching consistency, ultimately benefiting the students’ learning experience in Fiji.
This situation opens the door for educational reforms that can foster greater engagement and accountability among educators, paving the way for a more stable and productive learning environment.
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