One terminated, others warned after teacher appointment probe ends: A-G

The Ministry of Education, Heritage and the Arts has announced the completion of a major investigation into the handling of the classroom teacher appointments that commenced earlier this year.

This investigation identified the root causes of issues behind the delays, which are now being addressed.

The investigation has also resulted in the termination of one officer’s contract and the issu- ing of 10 warning letters to others involved. “Systemic problems have long been entrenched within the Ministry, and those problems are now actively being resolved through better, more transparent policy and clearer direction for the staff involved,” said Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, Attorney-General and Minister responsible for Education, Heritage and the Arts.

“It was also very disturbing to note the release of false and misleading information.

“We will ensure that the ministry serves its teachers to allow them to focus entirely on the teaching of Fiji’s students.

“We will remain vigilant in this mission, and will continue to investigate any claims that impact the wellbeing and workplace environment of teachers, while also undertaking a serious programme of reforms to tackle the underlying issues affecting Fijian teachers around the country,” he added.