FIJI TEACHERS REGISTRATION AUTHORITY (FTRA) FIRST-EVER ANNUAL CONGRESS 2024
Speaking to the first ever Fiji Teachers Registration Authority and Ministry of Education Congress to be held, Minister for Education, Honourable Aseri Radrodro, revealed that 395 teachers who have upgraded their qualifications will shortly receive 50% of payment for salary upgrade and the remaining 50% will be received in January of 2025. Honorable Radrodro stated that 103 Assistant Principals will also be getting a step up in their salary bands to differentiate them from Heads of Departments.
Honorable Radrodro thanked teachers who have persisted to upgrade their professional qualifications and work hard to become more versatile and qualified in subjects not only related to teaching but inclusive of other areas of learning like Management which the coalition government was keen to retain hence the necessary payment of their dues.
Speaking to the Teachers at the Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa in Nadi today, the Honorable Minister stated that the milestone event brings together educators, leaders, and stakeholders in the education sector to discuss vital issues and innovations in Fiji’s teaching profession.
In his opening address, Honourable Radrodro told the gathering that their role as teachers was a very crucial one.
“I want to remind you that you are not just ordinary teachers but you have a special calling for such a time as this,” he said. “This is your season, this is your time. Make good use of it!”
The first-ever FTRA Annual Congress is a realization of the Honourable Minister’s vision to establish a platform where teachers, regardless of their role, can gather, share experiences, and discuss solutions to the challenges facing the education sector. “This will be the first conference where you can all meet together as a profession to discuss and share experiences irrespective of your role, whether you’re an HOD, Head of School, Director, or even a School Manager,” Honourable Radrodro said. “Your experiences, from ECE to school Principals, are crucial to shaping how we tackle emerging issues in education.”
The theme of the conference, “Transforming Education: Closing Gaps, Connecting Minds, Shaping Tomorrow,” reflects the collaborative vision between the Ministry of Education, the FTRA, and all stakeholders involved in improving Fiji’s education system. The Honourable Minister urged educators to not only impart knowledge but also focus on shaping the character of students, referencing Martin Luther King Jr.’s words: “The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character that is the goal of true education.”
Honourable Radrodro discussed the evolving landscape of education, where traditional methods of learning are no longer sufficient due to the influence of social media and technology. He emphasized the importance of incorporating creative teaching methods that engage students and spark their interest in learning, such as integrating the arts, like meke, dance, and other hands-on activities, into lessons.
The Minister also touched upon the critical issue of literacy and numeracy, noting that many students are entering secondary school unable to read or write proficiently. He challenged educators to consider alternative curriculums and training programs to address these gaps, particularly focusing on diagnosing and addressing learning impediments, such as autism or behavioral challenges. “We must work together to ensure that every student is given the opportunity to thrive and succeed,” he stated.
Honourable Radrodro affirmed the government’s commitment to education, saying, “A strong educational framework requires investment. That is why we are committed to having the highest budget allocation for education and implementing programs that provide professional development for educators, ensuring every school has access to the necessary technology and resources.”
He also highlighted the significant improvements made in teacher benefits, including the payment of location allowances, regularization of posts, and qualification upgrades. “These incentives are crucial to recognize the efforts of teachers and ensure we retain your professional skills for the development of our education sector.”
As the congress continued, Honourable Radrodro urged educators to engage with purpose, share best practices, and collaborate to elevate the educational experience for students. He reiterated that the challenges in the classroom are also a fight for the future of Fiji, calling on teachers to inspire students to pursue positive paths in life, free from the influence of drugs and crime.
In closing, he expressed his gratitude to all attendees and affirmed that the success of this first-ever FTRA Annual Congress will lay the foundation for future collaboration and progress in Fiji’s education system. “Let us continue this partnership into the future, working together to inspire and shape the next generation of leaders,” he said.
Be teachers without borders!
