Classroom discipline getting worse, says teachers union

Teachers in Fiji are raising concerns about what is happening inside classrooms today.

Many say schools are no longer as safe or controlled as they used to be. Student behaviour, they claim, is getting worse, and teachers feel they have fewer ways to manage it.

At the center of the debate is the ban on corporal punishment.

This rule, which stops teachers from physically disciplining students, was introduced to protect children. But some teachers now believe it has had unintended effects.

Fiji Teachers Association (FTA) general secretary Paula Manumanunitoga, who spent 36 years in the education system, says things began to change after the ban.

He says students are now more aware that teachers cannot physically punish them, and this has led to more misbehaviour in schools.

“Before, students were scared to do wrong,” he said. “Now they know teachers cannot touch them.”

Teachers are reporting cases of bullying, fighting, and students refusing to listen in class. Some say they feel unsafe while doing their job.

The FTA is calling for a review of discipline policies. Instead of using the term corporal punishment, they are suggesting what they call “corrective behavioural measures” to help control student behaviour.

This issue has started a wider discussion about how to balance children’s rights with the need for discipline in schools.

The FTA says discipline is important for learning.

“Students cannot learn properly if classrooms are not controlled. Teachers across the country have shared similar concerns. Many say they struggle daily with students who are disruptive or aggressive.”

Mr Manumanunitoga says parents are not doing enough at home. He believes discipline should start with families, not just schools.

Feedback: sosiveta.korobiau@fijisun.com.fj