The Education Ministry of Fiji is actively addressing a critical shortage of teachers, particularly in the STEM fields, as well as in Physical Education, Music, Art, and Craft. Education Minister Aseri Radrodro recently shed light on this issue in Parliament, emphasizing strategic measures being adopted to attract and retain more educators, especially as many teachers are leaving for better opportunities overseas—a trend seen globally.
To tackle this rising issue, the Ministry is implementing several initiatives. Starting in January 2024, the Ministry plans to recruit final-year students from teacher training institutions and engage primary school teachers for roles in these specialized areas. These efforts aim not only to increase the number of educators but also to keep experienced teachers in the system longer. One of the key retention strategies includes extending the retirement age for STEM teachers from 60 to 62, allowing seasoned educators to continue contributing their expertise.
The concern surrounding teacher shortages was highlighted by Opposition MP Hem Chand, who inquired about the most affected subjects. In response, Minister Radrodro underscored the global prevalence of this issue, as reported in the UNESCO Global Report on Teachers, and reassured Parliament of ongoing efforts to maintain a resilient educational workforce in Fiji.
In addition to these measures, the Ministry is collaborating with the Tertiary Scholarships and Loans Scheme (TSLS) to accelerate recruitment processes and promptly fill teaching vacancies. This collaboration reflects part of a wider initiative by Fiji’s People’s Coalition Government to uphold the quality of education despite global challenges, involving various stakeholders across educational and governmental sectors.
Fiji’s Education Ministry’s commitment to resolving these staffing shortages through robust recruitment and retention strategies illustrates its proactive approach. This dedication is a promising step towards enhancing the quality of educational delivery across the country, ensuring that every student benefits from access to committed and qualified educators. The Ministry’s efforts are a hopeful indication of the nation’s capacity to navigate these hurdles, setting the stage for a brighter educational future for its citizens.