Unions and govt talk ‘pay rise’ for teachers?

Teachers may soon receive positive news on wage increases, following a crucial meeting scheduled tomorrow between the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Civil Service and teachers’ unions.

Mounting pressure over salaries pushed the Government to the table last Friday, when Education Minister Aseri Radrodro, hosted discussions with the Fiji Teachers Association (FTA) and Fiji Teachers Union (FTU).

In a statement, the Ministry of Education said the meeting focused on collaboration to improve Fiji’s education system while providing stronger support for teachers.

Mr Radrodro acknowledged the concerns raised and updated unions on initiatives to improve working conditions, professional development, and overall support.

FTA president Paula Manumanunitoga described the talks as constructive, but said more concrete decisions were needed.

“We agreed that we should meet with the three ministers or their permanent secretaries so we could stretch out and discuss ways of addressing the issues we raised,” he said. The meeting comes amid warnings from both FTA and FTU that strike action could disrupt external examinations in November if their demand for a substantial pay rise is not met. Mr Manumanunitoga said teachers were prepared to escalate action if necessary.

“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,” he said.

Teachers dedicate more time in classrooms than with their families, yet continue to face unfair treatment compared to other professions. Mr Manumanunitoga further accused successive governments of neglecting the education sector.

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