The Fiji Teachers Union is calling for a 15 percent salary increase for teachers, saying the country is losing an average of two teachers a day to overseas opportunities.
During an interview with fijivillage News on the 2026-2027 budget expectation, FTU General Secretary Muniappa Goundar says the proposed 15 percent increase would comprise an 8 percent cost of living adjustment, a 3 percent salary scale payment, a 2 percent merit-based increase, and a 2 percent equity and retention adjustment.
Goundar says the continued departure of teachers is having a serious impact on the education sector, stressing that when a nation loses its teachers, it loses its future.
He says teachers have endured challenges for too long and deserve improved salaries, better working conditions and greater opportunities.
According to Goundar, Fiji is training teachers for export, with many teachers leaving for higher-paying jobs in countries such as Australia and New Zealand.
The FTU believes improved remuneration and conditions are critical to retaining qualified teachers and ensuring the long-term stability of Fiji’s education system.
The 2026-2027 National Budget will be announced on the 26th of this month.
