School head saga

Akbar: No place for racism, divisive politics

RACISM and divisive politics have no place in Fiji’s education sector, Education Minister Rosy Akbar told 109 heads of schools for the Lautoka, Yasawa and Nadi region at the Fiji National University Natabua campus yesterday.

Ms Akbar also spoke to school heads about ongoing issues with two major schools in Nausori on the appointment of their acting principals.

RACISM and divisive politics have no place in this day and age, especially in Fiji’s education sector.

Education Minister Rosy Akbar highlighted this to 109 heads of schools for the Lautoka, Yasawa, and Nadi region at the Fiji National University Natabua campus yesterday.

“Keep politics out of the door, let us politicians deal with politics,” Ms Akbar said.

“You have your political affiliation, fair enough, we respect that but in the meantime, you have to co-operate and work with us.

“You all applied to become heads of schools so let us all work together and we will treat everybody equally with the respect they deserve.”

Ms Akbar said teachers were not chosen to become school leaders because of their names or colours but their ability to deliver what was best for Fijian children.

She elaborated to school heads about ongoing issues between the ministry and two major schools in Nausori on the appointment of their acting principals.

Ms Akbar said major changes were witnessed when she visited Ratu Kadavulevu School last week especially with the appointment of the new school acting principal Arvind Prasad.

These included major facelift to the school environment and facilities, adding, these were changes brought about for the betterment of children.

She urged teachers to remember they were there for a purpose and there was no need to get involved or get caught up in certain situations.

“Your children and staff need you; we must move forward and build that relationship in the community you are serving.

“We want to see 2020 as a year of hope and celebration.”

The ministry has the right to appoint head of schools and other positions in the school – Rosy Akbar

Picture: BALJEET SINGH TOP: Minister for Education Rosy Akbar with deputy permanent secretary Timoci Bure of the Education Ministry at the head of schools Lautoka/Yasawa division meeting at FNU Natabua campus in Lautoka yesterday.

Picture: BALJEET SINGH Arvin Kumar speaks at the head of schools Lautoka/ Yasawa division meeting at FNU Natabua campus in Lautoka yesterday.