Teacher Exodus Continues in Fiji, Union Warns

The Fiji Teachers Union (FTU) has sounded a grave alarm regarding the persistent "teacher exodus" from Fiji, a phenomenon that threatens to undermine the nation's educational foundation. General Secretary Muniappa Goundar's assertion that approximately two teachers depart Fijian schools daily for opportunities in Australia and New Zealand paints a stark picture of the crisis. This continuous drain of educators, numbering over 700 annually, is not merely a statistic; it represents a loss of valuable experience and dedication that is becoming increasingly difficult to replace.

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Fiji is “exporting teachers” to Australia and New Zealand as low salaries and rising living costs continue to push educators overseas.

The root causes identified by the FTU are deeply concerning and directly linked to the economic realities faced by educators in Fiji. Low salaries that fail to keep pace with the escalating cost of living, coupled with demanding workloads and inadequate incentives for retention, are pushing experienced teachers to seek better prospects abroad. This situation creates a vicious cycle: as more teachers leave, the burden on those remaining increases, potentially leading to burnout and further departures. The union's proactive step in submitting proposals for the 2026–2027 national budget, advocating for improved remuneration and working conditions, is a crucial attempt to break this cycle.

From a Fijian perspective, the quality of education is intrinsically linked to the nation's future development and the well-being of its citizens. The potential consequences of a worsening teacher shortage are dire, ranging from overcrowded classrooms to a decline in the overall standard of education. This not only affects the current generation of students but also has long-term implications for the country's human capital and economic competitiveness. The FTU's warnings serve as a critical reminder to the government that investing in teachers is not merely an expenditure but a vital investment in the nation's future.

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We can retain them by giving them what they deserve. The remuneration that they should get is the cost of things, or the purchasing power of the dollar diminishes.

The FTU's call for better salaries and working conditions is a plea for recognition of the essential role teachers play in society. It is a demand for remuneration that reflects the true value of their contribution and ensures they can lead dignified lives. The union's stance is clear: Fiji must prioritize its educators and implement policies that not only attract but also retain talented individuals in the teaching profession. Failure to address this issue promptly could lead to irreparable damage to the education system, a prospect that should concern every Fijian.

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low salaries, rising living costs, heavy workloads and poor retention incentives are driving experienced teachers out of the country.