Seruiratu blames Ministry inefficiencies for unpaid teacher salary

The frustration and stress caused by delayed payments for teachers if left unaddressed lead to a decline in morale and performance, ultimately affecting the students who rely on their educators for guidance.

The Leader of the Opposition, Inia Seruiratu highlighted this while commenting on the issue of pending teacher salaries where he says in every nation, teachers form the backbone of society’s intellectual and moral development and their contributions to the educational system cannot be overstated.

Seruiratu also emphasized the dire situation faced by many teachers who have yet to receive their salarie, a situation that has persisted for an unacceptably long time.

He says it has come to the Opposition’s attention that a significant number of new teachers across the country are still awaiting payment for their services, despite having fulfilled their professional duties diligently.

The Leader of the Opposition says this issue, unfortunately, appears to be the result of internal inefficiencies and procedural delays within the Ministry of Education.

He adds teachers are facing severe financial strain and the government’s failure to release these pending salaries is a matter that demands immediate attention.

Seruiratu also highlighted many of these teachers have families who depend on their income to survive.

He says the delay in payment has left them struggling to meet basic needs such as providing food, paying utility bills, and ensuring their children continue to receive an education.

Seruiratu is urging the Coalition Government to act decisively and without further delay to resolve this critical matter.

The Minister for Education, Aseri Radrodro says for any new graduates coming to the Ministry, they need to undertake a process of induction.

Radrodro says they need to be aware that they have a responsibility to provide the information and documentation to the Ministry.

He says when the appointment comes, they need to sign the appointment letter and send it to the Ministry.

The Minister says if they do not do that, they will prolong the processing of their pay because the system needs their endorsement.

Further questions have been sent to Radrodro.