Minister urges talks as teachers threaten exam strike

Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro has assured teachers’ unions that Government is working on a technical approach to address their pay concerns amid looming strike threats.

“Usually, we take the consultation approach,” Mr Radrodro said.

“We are here to have our meeting with the executives of the teacher unions to further discuss and look at opportunities, avenues and possibilities before we can make a comment publicly.”

His comments follow warnings from the Fiji Teachers Association (FTA) and Fiji Teachers Union (FTU) that strike action could take place during external examinations in November if their demand for a substantial pay rise is not met.

FTA president Paula Manumanunitoga said the union was prepared to escalate its actions, even if it means disrupting exams.

“We will go step by step. And then if the government still doesn’t listen, we will probably have to call a strike during external examination. That would affect our children, but we want it effective,” Mr Manumanunitoga said.

He said teachers dedicate more time in classrooms than with their families but continue to face unfair treatment compared to other professions. He also accused Government of neglecting the education sector for years.

Meanwhile, Higher Education Commission chairperson Steve Chand said institutions should not be holding closed-door meetings on matters that affect the public, calling for greater transparency.

The possibility of strike action has raised concerns about major disruptions to national exams, adding urgency to the ongoing talks between Government and the unions.