Alarming teachers absentism stats
Mr Manumanunitoga, who has more than 10 years of experience as a school principal, added that absenteeism was particularly damaging in urban schools with large class sizes.
Friday 06 December 2024 | 13:21
The Ministry of Education has revealed troubling statistics regarding teacher absenteeism from 2022 to 2024, raising serious concerns about its impact on students' education.
Responding to a question from Opposition MP Premila Kumar, Education minister Aseri Radrodro disclosed the following figures for secondary school teachers in urban areas only across Fiji:
(See statistics below).
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These absences cover various types of leave, such as sick leave, personal leave, maternity leave, and others.
The ministry monitors attendance via the Fiji Education Management Information System (FEMIS), with schools required to track teacher absences.
According to Mr Radrodro, heads of schools closely monitor attendance, and a teacher absent for seven consecutive days is considered to have resigned.
The ministry has introduced a recovery plan, offering afternoon and Saturday classes for students to catch up. However, the frequent absenteeism of teachers remains a serious issue.
The Fijian Teachers Association’s general secretary, Paula Manumanunitoga, acknowledged the detrimental effect on students’ academic performance.
“Frequent absenteeism disrupts lessons, leading to setbacks in subjects like maths and reading, and affects student engagement,” he said.
“It also leads to behavioural problems, a lack of motivation, and increased stress for teachers covering classes in their absence.”
Mr Manumanunitoga, who has more than 10 years of experience as a school principal, added that absenteeism was particularly damaging in urban schools with large class sizes.
He stressed that while teachers were entitled to their leave, it was essential for them to understand the importance of being present for their students.
The Fiji Teachers Union’s general secretary, Muniappa Gounder, also expressed concern, acknowledging that while teachers are entitled to leave, some take excessive time off.
“Teachers must stay within the leave limits and provide genuine reasons for their absences,” he said.
“This issue contributes to poor student outcomes, and we urge teachers to be more responsible.”
Both unions have suggested solutions, including hiring more teachers, transferring teachers closer to their homes, and raising salaries to match the rising cost of living.
Feedback: inoke.rabonu@fijisun.com.fj
