Two major events have taken place in Suva recently – the Methodist Church annual conference and the Fijian Teachers Association annual delegates conference.
Both conferences discussed vital issues, touching the lives of all Fijians.
The Methodist Church conference appointed a new leader, Reverend Dr Semisi Turagavou, as its head – an experienced personality (hearty congratulations).
The focus of the conference was to look at the role of ministers’ vis-a-vis the congregation and multiple social issues surrounding the church, such as relationship with other religious bodies, quality of education and training, teenage pregnancies, domestic violence, extramarital affairs, abuse of drugs and other substances, fundraising methods for the church, and generally the positive attitude exhibited in discussions was a refreshing reading.
The key focus of course was the revitalisation of spirituality. The church must be commended for its vision.
The teachers conference also looked at several issues surrounding the education system. Netani Druavesi, the president of FTA, expressed his concerns about the unilateral impositions of selection procedures without consultation. And many other issues led to the emergence of hostile spirit towards the FijiFirst government.
The union’s rights were crushed; teachers were frustrated in classrooms. Foreign ideas copied from Australia and New Zealand were imposed as the world’s best practices.
Role of school management was neutralised. People were too scared to talk, for fear of losing grants, etc. The FTA president was thankful that the current Government is prepared to talk and listen to their grievances.
OMRS was removed, thus introducing greater transparency and accountability. Henceforth, the amicable relationship between the union and ministry can function on equal terms, with respect in the educational interest of our children.
May I wish both organisations every success in their endeavours.
Source: Dewan Chand
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