A 3% pay increase for Fijian teachers is insufficient to halt their ongoing migration to better-paying positions abroad, according to Paula Manumanunitoga, General Secretary of the Fijian Teachers Association. He expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of this increase included in the 2025-2026 National Budget, arguing that it will not address the root causes prompting educators to leave Fiji for countries like Australia and New Zealand, where salaries are significantly higher.
Manumanunitoga highlighted the fact that teachers are among the largest group of civil servants migrating overseas, citing that many qualified educators are compelled to seek better financial opportunities due to disparities in compensation. He stated, “What will a 3% pay raise do? Can it stop people from migrating? Never, it never will.”
The issue of teacher migration has been underscored by previous reports indicating that over 600 teachers left Fiji between 2022 and 2023 largely due to dissatisfaction with their salaries and working conditions. Currently, Fijian teachers earn between $14,000 to $18,000 annually, starkly lower than their international counterparts who can earn significantly more, thus leading to a high teacher turnover.
Manumanunitoga urged the government to consider educators as a distinct category within the civil service. He advocated for focused strategies and support from stakeholders to prevent the migration of skilled teachers. Teacher shortages, if left unaddressed, could have a detrimental impact on the education system’s quality, with many schools already struggling due to this exodus.
Education Minister Aseri Radrodro acknowledged the concerns raised and emphasized the government’s commitment to exploring solutions that encompass better pay and address the systemic issues leading to teacher burnout and dissatisfaction. This includes potential enhancements in infrastructure and resources to support the educational sector.
Despite the challenging circumstances, there is a glimmer of hope. As dialogues continue between teachers’ unions and government officials, there is a collective aspiration for meaningful changes that will not only improve conditions for teachers but also lead to a more resilient educational framework in Fiji. With a concerted effort to rectify disparities and provide adequate support, the future may hold promise for both educators and students alike.
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