Fiji allocates $883 million to education, prioritizing teacher recruitment

Fiji's education sector will receive a significant boost with an $883 million allocation in the 2026/2027 National Budget, according to Education Minister Aseri Radrodro. This substantial investment accounts for 18 percent of the total government expenditure, underscoring the nation's commitment to its schools and students.

A key priority within this budget is ensuring schools are adequately staffed. The Ministry of Education will receive $708.3 million, with a considerable portion, $434 million, earmarked for the salaries and wages of over 13,000 teachers. Minister Radrodro emphasized the ministry's focus on timely teacher recruitment and deployment.

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It is an increase from last year. We have tried our best to ensure that every school has teachers. This increase will hopefully address the issues we raised this year by providing teachers on time and ensuring the right teachers are placed where they are needed, as we continue to drive quality education for all students and teachers.

"It is an increase from last year. We have tried our best to ensure that every school has teachers," Radrodro stated. He expressed hope that this increased funding will address current staffing issues, ensuring the right teachers are placed where needed to drive quality education for all.

The budget also allocates $160 million towards scholarships, aiming to support around 23,000 students. Furthermore, a new Postgraduate Diploma Scholarship Scheme is being introduced to help tackle critical skills shortages in priority sectors across the country. The ministry also reaffirmed its commitment to teacher welfare, student well-being, and transport assistance, recognizing their importance in keeping students in school and ensuring educational continuity.

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Teacher welfare, student welfare, and transport assistance will help ensure we keep our students in schools, bring our students to school, and, with the new act, ensure we provide education for all students.