MEMBERS of a teacher union recently discussed core issues that affect their working conditions.
These include merit pay, backdating of promotions, the terms and conditions and salary of teachers teaching in early childhood education schools, graduate salaries, and the need to continue empowering teachers with decent pay and better working conditions, says Fiji Teachers Union (FTU) general secretary Muniappa Goundar.
While discussing matters regarding industrial relations during the members’ capacity-building session — which is at the heart of the union — Mr Goundar said the union supports the implementation of a teacher protection policy.
FTU is the largest teachers’ union in Fiji, with about 4500 members and strong sound policies governing its operations.
National president Sashi Mahendra Shandil stressed the union’s achievements and the need for unity and togetherness.
Assistant general secretary Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam spoke on the role of the branch chairperson, secretary and treasurer and the importance of coming as a team to achieve the desired results.
“It is important to communicate and publicise matters in disseminating information to the membership at the grassroots level.”
Retired schoolteacher and veteran unionist, Roop Chand shared his experiences since joining the FTU and the benefits of joining the union.
“There are benefits of the FTU medical scheme, and I urge the younger generation to invest their time and energy in taking part in union activities,” he said.
Rameshwar Lal, who is the personnel officer, spoke at length on the Mutual Aid Benefit Scheme (MABS), which deals with medical services provided by the union.
“There are sound financial policies that govern FTU, the medical scheme (hospitalisation – local and overseas) and the union’s co-operative arm, FTU Credit Thrift and Co-operative Ltd, which enables members to invest their funds and buy shares in the co-operative and at the Fiji Hideaway Coral Coast Resort in Sigatoka.”
Meanwhile, national women’s wing chairwoman, Urmila Singh stressed the importance of women members taking part in union activities, the annual conference, workshops and seminars.
Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, Agni Deo Singh, who was the union’s general secretary, thanked FTU for organising the session and for working tirelessly to meet its members’ needs and priorities. He assured his full support to the union.
