EDUCATION Minister Aseri Radrodro says salary upgrades for teachers who have improved their qualifications remain subject to the necessary approval.
His comments come amid frustration from teachers who are still waiting for salary adjustments despite submitting the required documents.
Mr Radrodro said the upgrades were part of the ministry’s strategy to retain teachers.
“That’s something that the Ministry of Education is committed to as part of its strategy to retain teachers, this is one of them,” he said.
“And we have been honouring them in the past.
“We hope that we will get the necessary approval to adhere and address those salary upgrades.”
Asked about the delay, he said, “We have to get the necessary approval.”
The Fijian Teachers Association (FTA) general secretary Paula Manumanunitoga said the association had repeatedly raised the issue with Mr Radrodro and permanent secretary Navin Raj.
He said some teachers were facing financial difficulties while renting away from home, despite completing further studies and submitting the required documents.
Mr Manumanunitoga said the association also raised concerns during a budget meeting after finding no specific allocation for salary upgrades.
He said the minister had indicated the ministry would try to find funding from within its existing budget.
However, the association remains uncertain when the outstanding salary adjustments will be processed, despite repeated emails and follow-ups.
