INVESTING in teachers is critical to building a stronger education system and securing better outcomes for children, says Professor Dr Lavinia Tiko.
The acting Dean of the College of Humanities, Education and Law Associate Fiji National University made the comment during discussions on the Yavu Duavata: Fiji Hybrid ECED Teacher Professional Development Pilot, a World Bank-funded initiative aimed at strengthening early childhood teacher capacity through hybrid training.
“By investing in our teachers, we are investing in the future of every child in Fiji,” Dr Tiko said.
“This pilot is not just about professional development, it is about building a stronger, more resilient education system for Fiji and the Pacific.”
The World Bank-funded initiative brings together the Fiji National University, Childhood Education International, the Ministry of Education and the Fiji Early Childhood Teachers Association.
Dr Tiko said Fiji could take a leading role in early childhood education across the Pacific.
“Fiji has the opportunity to lead the region in early childhood education.”
“This hybrid model combines global best practices with local innovation, ensuring teachers are equipped to meet the needs of young learners in diverse contexts.”
The initiative aims to improve learning outcomes while strengthening partnerships and providing sustainable and scalable support for Fiji’s foundation years.
It also seeks to position Fiji as a regional centre of excellence for Early Childhood Education and Development and strengthen Fiji’s role in supporting early learning across the Pacific.
