Ministry recruits final-year students, retirees to ease teacher shortage

The Ministry of Education is recruiting final-year students and considering temporary appointments of retired teachers as part of efforts to address the nationwide teacher shortage.

Education Minister Aseri Radrodro told Parliament yesterday that since January 2024, final-year students from teacher training institutions have been recruited in areas of high demand.

"We are recruiting final-year students as of January 2024 in these specific areas, including also primary school teachers from teacher training institutions," Mr Radrodro said.

The students receive one-year limited authority to teach certificates from the Fiji Teachers Registration Authority for a registration fee of $25.

"In the process, we would also work with the teachers, those teachers, to complete their programs of studies," he added.

The shortage is most severe in secondary schools, particularly in STEM subjects such as science, chemistry, biology, physics, computer science, industrial arts, and mathematics, as well as PEMAC subjects covering physical education, music, art, and craft.

Leader of Opposition Inia Seruiratu pressed the government on whether retirees could be used to fill the gaps.

"While you are trying to fill the vacant posts, there are retirees in the same areas that are also qualified to do the work," Mr Seruiratu said.

Mr Radrodro confirmed that the ministry is working with the Public Service Commission on bringing back retired teachers.

He said resignations for better opportunities both abroad and locally have contributed significantly to the shortage.

To improve retention, the government has increased the retirement age from 60 to 62 for STEM teachers and those in special and inclusive education. Consultations are underway with the Public Service Commission to extend the policy to primary school teachers.