Teachers are nation builders: University of Fiji lecturer inspires at Fiji Teachers Union meeting

A well-supported teacher is empowered to put in more effort and inspire more people, and a child who is given proper attention and support in the pursuit of education becomes a better human being —one who will grow to be resourceful and productive in their future endeavours.

University of Fiji Law lecturer, Sainiana Radrodro, highlighted this at the 33rd Annual General Meeting of the Fiji Teachers Union (FTU) Women’s Wing, held yesterday at Cuvu College in Nadroga.

She addressed a gathering of women educators and emphasised the essential role of collaboration in driving educational transformation.

She says in this era of rapid change and complex challenges, no single teacher, policy, or institution can bring about transformation alone.

Radrodro says there is a need for a collaborative effort — where educators, parents, policymakers, and communities work together to become a force capable of shaping the future.

The lawyer praised the University of Fiji for encouraging its faculty and staff to participate in community-based efforts, and called on the teachers present to always remember the power and impact of their daily work.

She says as they lead, teach, and perform their duties each day, they should see each child under their care as a precious human being with the potential to break cycles of poverty and become a change-maker.

Radrodro shared a deeply personal story from her own upbringing, recalling her days as a student at Dilkusha Girls’ School, and highlighting the vital role played by one of her teachers, Savitri Chand, who offered mentorship, support, and kindness at a vulnerable time in her life.

She says her teacher saw a child in need — not a race, not a stereotype.

She says each time teachers see beyond race, religion, creed, and gender — and instead see a student as a promise and a gift, we all win.

Radrodro also emphasised that education thrives on relationships—between teachers and students, among colleagues, and within communities.

She urged teachers to support one another and celebrate their accomplishments, stating that every mountain climbed is another reason to pause and celebrate, and that their role as teachers is one of the most profound and important in the world.

She says progress is never the result of one person, one leader, or one moment, but it is the product of collective effort, shared dreams, and an unwavering belief in the power of education.