Fiji Teachers Union calls for 40% increase in transport assistance

The Fiji Teachers Union (FTU) is pushing for a significant 40% rise in transport assistance to support operators in rural and maritime areas. The union argues that the current scheme, with fares ranging from $0.70 to $1.50, has become unsustainable due to escalating fuel prices and operational expenses.

FTU General Secretary Muniappa Goundar highlighted that transport vouchers for rural services have remained stagnant since 2014. He stressed that without an adjustment, service providers may cease operations, jeopardizing the government's commitment to free education and impacting students' access to schools.

"So, you know, FTE demand increased by 35% to 40%, you know, to be fair to these service providers that, you know, they can keep providing the much-needed, you know, services in their localities. Otherwise, if they stop, then how are the children going to have the sense of free education, you know, that is defeated," Goundar stated.

The union is calling on the government to prioritize this issue in the next national budget. The Fijian Teachers Association also expressed concern, noting complaints from rural operators about the inadequacy of current voucher values, especially given poor road conditions and rising living costs in remote areas. The Ministry of Education has been contacted regarding contingency plans should the fuel crisis worsen.

“

So, you know, FTE demand increased by 35% to 40%, you know, to be fair to these service providers that, you know, they can keep providing the much-needed, you know, services in their localities. Otherwise, if they stop, then how are the children going to have the sense of free education, you know, that is defeated.