Some schools are facing significant delays in securing replacement teachers, with some educators waiting up to six weeks for cover when primary school staff go on leave. This situation has placed an increased strain on both teachers and students, raising concerns about the quality of education.
Bal Sanju Reddy, head teacher of Labasa Sangam Primary School, brought this issue to light during a recent public consultation on the review of the Education Act 1966. He shared his school’s experience where, despite the urgent need for substitutes when two teachers went on maternity leave, it took six weeks to fill one of those positions. This delay has prompted calls for reform within the current education system.
Mr. Reddy emphasized the need for more timely responses to teacher absences, urging the Ministry of Education to expand the pool of available relief teachers. He expressed the frustrations of both educators and community members who demand that replacements be sent promptly to maintain educational quality. Reddy highlighted the importance of a responsive system that can ensure that both rural and urban schools have access to relieving teachers when needed.
The Ministry of Education has acknowledged these concerns. Metuisela Gauna, an education officer, noted that they are committed to reviewing proposals for enhancement of the current system and would collaborate with the Fiji Law Reform Commission for further improvements.
This issue resonates with previous reports highlighting an overall shortage of teachers in Fiji, especially in critical subjects, and the challenges posed by insufficient support for educators. The Fijian Teachers Association has indicated that this shortage is compounded by systemic issues such as teacher burnout and inadequate working conditions.
Despite these challenges, there remains hope for reform. By actively seeking solutions, such as increasing the number of teachers and improving working conditions, Fiji can work toward a more sustainable education system. There is potential for practical changes that would not only alleviate existing pressures but also help deliver a more effective learning environment for students across the nation.
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