Bright students are increasingly avoiding teaching as a career choice, signaling a decline in the profession’s appeal. Dr. Neelesh Gounder highlighted this concern during the recent World Teachers Day celebration organized by the Fiji Teachers Union. He posed a crucial question: why are talented students not pursuing teaching degrees at universities?
Dr. Gounder mentioned that many individuals who have obtained a Bachelor of Education opt for employment in the private sector instead of entering the teaching profession, despite being trained educators. This trend reflects a lack of attractive incentives drawing qualified teachers into schools.
He emphasized the importance of improving working conditions for teachers, starting with competitive salaries and benefits. However, he questioned how these compensation packages should be assessed.
He suggested that one approach is to compare teaching salaries and benefits with those of other professions that demand similar qualifications and skills. By offering fair employment conditions, the education sector can attract and retain quality teachers, thereby enhancing the social status of educators within the community.