Opposition MP Premila Kumar has urged the Ministry of Education to address several pressing issues raised by teachers, including the lack of issued payslips, delays in FNPF deductions, access to FEMIS, and non-payment of salaries for some educators. In a statement, Kumar emphasized the frustrations of teachers regarding the unresolved FNPF deductions, which have not been deposited into their accounts for over two months.
Kumar noted that many teachers have also expressed concern over not being able to access their payslips via FEMIS after receiving their first salaries. The last instance of payslip issuance was reported in January 2025, leading to widespread dissatisfaction among educators. “Teachers have a right to know what has gone wrong and when it will be fixed,” she stated, stressing the importance of payslips for verifying earnings and securing loans or purchases on hire purchase agreements.
The issue is compounded by the lack of communication from the Ministry’s HR department in response to teachers’ written inquiries about salary adjustments related to upgraded qualifications. Kumar highlighted that numerous teachers—who have advanced their qualifications—are still awaiting their salary increases, stating that this is not an isolated concern but a widespread issue affecting the morale and financial stability of teachers.
In response to these grievances, Kumar has called for urgent clarification from the Minister for Education on several specific issues, including the reasons behind the missing FNPF deductions, the unavailability of payslips on FEMIS, and the delay in salary adjustments for newly graduated teachers. She expressed that these ongoing delays are not only unfair but also adversely impact the quality of education, as they devalue the hard work and commitment of educators.
Kumar firmly stated, “The Minister for Education must urgently address these issues and provide clear answers,” reinforcing the critical role teachers play in enhancing educational outcomes. She further stressed, “How can we talk about valuing education when we continue to fail the very people delivering it?”
This situation highlights a broader concern about the treatment of teachers in Fiji, particularly those who have upgraded their skills. As the education sector faces challenges, it is vital for the government to ensure that teachers are adequately compensated and acknowledged for their contributions to education.
The Ministry of Education has yet to provide a response to these inquiries, leaving many teachers anxious about their financial and professional futures. Addressing these issues promptly could pave the way for improved morale among educators and strengthen the educational system in the country.
Leave a comment