Government ignoring solutions to teacher exodus, says FTA

The Fijian Teachers Association says the Government has ignored its proposals to address the growing exodus of teachers overseas, warning the continued loss of experienced educators will affect student learning and the quality of education.

The concerns come after the union confirmed teachers would not receive a salary increase under the 2026-2027 National Budget.

Association general secretary Paula Manumanunitoga said the union had submitted recommendations aimed at retaining teachers, but claimed they had not been acted on.

"There are so many teachers migrating overseas due to pay issues. We have put up a submission to try and curb this problem of losing teachers abroad, and yet the government is paying no attention," he said.

Mr Manumanunitoga said the lack of action on teachers' pay and working conditions would continue to undermine efforts to improve education outcomes.

"We do not expect Fiji to rise from the current numeracy and literacy rate that it's currently in," he said.

He described the decision not to increase teachers' salaries as disappointing.

"We are disappointed," he said.

Mr Manumanunitoga said the union had raised the issue with Education Minister Aseri Radrodro and Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka.

Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro acknowledged the ongoing problem after the budget announcement, saying teacher retention remains a priority despite the increased funding.

He said the ministry is working to improve teachers' welfare through salaries where possible, while also investing in training and professional development to support and retain teachers.

Asked about a pay rise for teachers and other civil servants, Mr Rabuka said the Government could not afford one.

"I will just have to encourage people to live off the land," Mr Rabuka said.

Mr Manumanunitoga also said the union was still assessing the Budget and remained unclear how the additional allocation for the Ministry of Education would be spent.

"We will need to examine the Budget before making any further comments."