No backdoor deals, follow the process: Head of schools warned

Head teachers have been warned not to use personal connections to bypass official processes, with Fiji Head Teachers Association (FHTA) president Johnson Rura stressing that there are no shortcuts in the system.

Addressing school heads during the Lautoka, Nadi, and Yasawa Head Teachers Association District Symposium at the Tanoa Hotel yesterday, Mr Rura made it clear that rules must be followed at all times.

"There are processes and procedures in place, and everyone has to follow them. I will reiterate this again: don’t use your personal relationships to get what you want. Never do that," he said.

He said some individuals had been bypassing divisional offices and going directly to the Education Permanent Secretary or Minister to secure favours.

"Follow the process. If you know you deserve a promotion, due diligence and adherence to procedure are essential. Be thankful for the positions you currently hold as head of school," he said.

Speaking in iTaukei, Mr Rura also warned against using informal settings to gain advantage.

"Please colleagues, don’t ever use personal relationships, na noda Veikilai, and drinking around the Tanoa of Yaqona to get what you want. Don’t do that," he said.

He urged school heads to think carefully before acting and to seek guidance from their district offices, which are best placed to support them.

Mr Rura said the divisional education system and digital initiatives were designed to address issues caused by people bypassing proper procedures.