The general secretary of the Fijian Teachers Association (FTA), Paula Manumanunitoga, is urging the Public Service Commission (PSC) to take prompt action regarding ongoing issues in three northern schools: Valelawa Primary School, Yadua Village School, and Laucala District School. He highlighted that some students are still learning in tent accommodations, a situation that has persisted for years.
Manumanunitoga emphasized the urgency of addressing these issues, as both students and teachers are suffering due to inadequate facilities. He expressed frustration, stating that if these problems are not resolved, responsibility should lie with the Minister of Education and his Permanent Secretary to provide a timely solution.
He underscored the vital role of political will from the government, asserting that it is the minister’s duty to ensure that his permanent secretary adheres to directives and follows through on crucial matters.
Additionally, Manumanunitoga called for collaboration and teamwork between the Minister and the Permanent Secretary’s office. He noted that unresolved differences between the two entities are harming the education system, impacting not just the ministry’s operations but also the entire schooling framework.
The FTA leader pointed out that delays in the disbursement of free education grants, issues in the appointment and contract renewals for teachers and support staff, a shortage of educators, and salary upgrades remain outstanding concerns.
An inquiry emailed to Education Minister Aseri Radrodro and his Permanent Secretary Selina Kuruleca on October 2 regarding the situation at Valelawa Primary School—which involves students in classes three to six operating out of two recycled tents—has gone unanswered.