343 Teachers resigned in the last 8 months
He admitted that while the exodus was a matter of personal choice, the difference in pay packets was the main factor.
Thursday 18 September 2025 | 18:00
343 teachers have resigned over the past eight months, a principals’ conference heard today.
Fiji Principals Association (FPA) president, Vishnu Deo Sharma, revealed this at the 132nd Principals Conference at the Sheraton Fiji Golf and Beach Resort in Denarau, Nadi.
Mr Sharma said the Ministry of Education’s records show that between January 1 and September 4, these teachers resigned in search of greener pastures.
He admitted that while the exodus was a matter of personal choice, the difference in pay packets was the main factor.
“FPA would not comment on this; however, members of the association feel that the Ministry must introduce measures to stop this brain drain, with teacher remuneration remaining the core factor,” Mr Sharma said.
“The comparison is not only with Australia and New Zealand but also with neighbouring Pacific Island countries and the private sector. The profession needs better pay. This would motivate teachers to remain in Fiji and prevent students from losing their favourite teacher midway through the year.
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“Teacher turnover has a huge impact on the quality of learning, as it takes time for both students and the new teacher to get acquainted. Apart from what the unions are calling for, there are other options available that I will discuss later, and I presume the ministry can also consider these.”
The association has called on the ministry to streamline processes and address the issue in an expedited manner.
“What baffles the FPA is the turnaround time the ministry takes to replace subject-specific teachers. The delay in appointments has a direct impact on teaching and learning, and this affects student performance.”
Education Minister Aseri Radrodro said teacher retention is a global issue, and Fiji is among the many countries struggling to keep its teachers, as developed nations offer more lucrative remuneration packages.
"Embracing teacher shortages in our schools require a multifaceted approach that focuses on improving recruitment, selection and overall job satisfaction, as the educational system faces a challenge in maintaining a strong teaching workforce," Mr Radrodro said.
Despite these challenges, the ministry is actively working to address staffing issues, recognising the importance of timely and efficient teacher placements.
Mr Radrodro added that the ministry was focused on streamlining its recruitment and placement processes.
