Nineteen candidates are contesting the Fiji Teacher’s Union National Election which begins at 3pm today at 22 polling venues around Fiji.

General Secretary Candidate Arun Prasad is leading an eight-member team into the election who promise to put the interest of all members first and make sure their voices are heard.

The candidates vying for the President’s post are: Muniappa Goundar, Nawel Umarao and Sunil Kumar and Vice President post are Nakul Deo Barman, Sanjay Abhinash Raman, Shareen Chand, Pranesh Praveen Sharma, Arvind Kumar and Ajeshni Nand.

Mr Prasad is challenging Agni Deo Singh for the general secretary position, while Shiek Mohammed Masud and Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam are vying for the assistant general secretary post.

Candidates for the National Executive Committee Member are Madhur Prakash, Ravinesh Prasad, Pranesh Kumar and Pratosh Kumar.

Publicity Officer Candidates are Govind Sami Padayachi and Brij Bhan Singh.

Teacher Ajeshni Nand who is one of two females contesting for the election said she wants to raise awareness for more women to take up leadership roles within the profession and also the union.

Ms Nand’s years of service spans back 23-years and she hopes to negotiate and ensure that women’s welfare in teaching are addressed such as safety issues in schools.

Vice President Candidate Arvind Kumar who has been an active union member for 30-years said if he is elected he will implement a scheme to give access to free medicine for members.

Members are encouraged to visit the various polling venues to vote today and tomorrow between 9am to 3pm.

Feedback:  fonua.talei@fijisun.com.fj