The Turaga ni Koro of Veivatuloa Village in Namosi, Alikisadra Tuiverata Vunitabua is urging the Ministry of Education to keep a closer watch on the length of time teachers spend in rural schools, claiming that some remain in the same postings for too long without being rotated.
His concerns were raised during public consultations on the Education Bill held in Navua.
Vunitabua questioned the appropriate duration of service for teachers at a single school, suggesting that extended stays have led some educators to become overly settled, while transfers are taking longer than expected.
In response, a Ministry representative explained that current policy requires teachers to serve a minimum of three years at a school, with the option to extend up to six years upon request.
He says extensions may be sought by either the teacher or the school management, and management can also apply to the Ministry for a transfer.
He adds however, financial limitations can sometimes delay the transfer process.
Meanwhile, a village elder called on the Ministry to take greater responsibility, stating that it is uncomfortable for communities to repeatedly request teacher relocations.
He emphasized the need for the Ministry to independently monitor teachers’ years of service and ensure timely rotations so that rural schools can benefit from fresh perspectives and renewed energy.
