The Ministry of Education has unveiled alarming statistics concerning teacher absenteeism from 2022 to 2024, prompting significant worries about its effects on student education. In response to a query from Opposition MP Premila Kumar, Education Minister Aseri Radrodro provided data specific to secondary school teachers in urban areas throughout Fiji.
The statistics encompass various categories of leave, including sick leave, personal leave, and maternity leave. The Ministry utilizes the Fiji Education Management Information System (FEMIS) to track teacher attendance, with schools obligated to monitor absences. Mr. Radrodro noted that school leaders closely oversee attendance, stating that any teacher missing seven consecutive days is considered to have resigned.
To address this issue, the ministry has launched a recovery plan, offering supplementary afternoon and Saturday classes to help students catch up on missed lessons. Despite these efforts, the persistent absenteeism among teachers constitutes a pressing challenge.
Paula Manumanunitoga, general secretary of the Fijian Teachers Association, pointed out the adverse effects of frequent absenteeism on student performance. He highlighted that such absences disrupt learning, particularly in fundamental subjects like mathematics and reading, and may lead to behavior issues, diminished motivation, and heightened stress for teachers who must cover for absent colleagues. He emphasized that, especially in urban schools with larger class sizes, it is crucial for teachers to recognize the importance of their presence for the sake of their students.
Muniappa Gounder, general secretary of the Fiji Teachers Union, echoed these concerns, noting that while teachers are entitled to take leave, some abuse this privilege. He urged educators to adhere to leave guidelines and to provide valid reasons for their absences, as failing to do so contributes to poor student outcomes.
Both unions have proposed several solutions to combat this issue, including hiring additional teachers, relocating educators closer to their homes, and increasing salaries to better align with the rising cost of living.
In summary, while the statistics on teacher absenteeism present a concerning picture, the proactive measures being introduced, such as recovery plans and the call for structural improvements, offer hope for resolving these challenges and ultimately enhancing student outcomes. Encouraging teachers to reflect on their attendance and emphasizing their critical role in the classroom are steps in the right direction toward fostering a more engaged and consistent learning environment for students.
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