Members of the Fijian Teachers Association (FTA) have urged Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad to resign due to ongoing pay disputes among teachers. Despite this, Professor Prasad remains firm on the salary increases for civil servants announced in the recent budget.
During the FTA’s annual general meeting in Suva, retired politician Ratu Peceli Rinakama expressed his belief that a new Finance Minister is necessary, as Professor Prasad has not effectively addressed the long-standing concerns raised by teachers. He emphasized that all submissions made during the meeting should be implemented and that taking their proposals home without action is pointless. Ratu Peceli acknowledged that while the government is democratically elected, teachers must advocate for their rights.
In response, Professor Prasad stated that Ratu Peceli is misinformed. He highlighted that decisions regarding salaries and job evaluations are under the jurisdiction of the Public Service Commission. He mentioned that the government has had constructive discussions with the FTA and that the salary increase of 7 to 10 percent for civil servants was generally well-received. Professor Prasad also noted that a review, which may include job evaluations, is anticipated to address various issues affecting teachers.
He countered Ratu Peceli’s remarks by asserting that his personal criticisms would not influence the government’s commitment to resolving the challenges faced by teachers. The Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Civil Service are directly responsible for implementing necessary reforms to tackle the outstanding issues.