Niue tackles teacher shortage

Niue is in critical need of teachers for the new school year.

According to the Broadcasting Corporation of Niue, there are 15 teacher vacancies, 11 at Niue High School and four at Niue Primary School.

Niue’s Department of Education and the Niue Public Service Commission are working to address the issue, which is caused by several factors, including health challenges, contract non-renewals, and a lack of adequate accommodation.

"Some teachers have decided not to renew their contracts, choosing to take up teaching opportunities elsewhere," said Hagen Siosikefu, Acting Director of the Public Service Commission.

Siosikefu said accommodation shortages have been a longstanding issue for workers from overseas.

"Government houses at Fualahi, previously under the responsibility of the Public Service Commission, are no longer available, leaving us to seek rental properties elsewhere for government employees."

Despite these challenges, Niue’s Department of Education Director Natasha Tohovaka remained optimistic about filling the vacancies and expressed gratitude for overseas teachers' support of the schools.

Watch TV Niue’s news segment on this story below.

“Here in Niue, we are fortunate and deeply appreciative of the teachers from the region and other countries outside the region who have supported and continue to contribute to our education sector.”

Tohovaka said prioritising long-term solutions is crucial in addressing the teacher shortage.

“Priorities include succession planning, encouraging students to pursue education careers, supporting studies beyond high school, and fostering a commitment to return and serve in Niue.

“These steps aim to build a sustainable workforce for the future.”

Tohovaka said one strategy was to foster, with a staggering 15 vacancies that need a “sense of responsibility” among students to return to Niue after completing their studies abroad.

“By contributing a few years of service before exploring opportunities elsewhere, they can play a vital role in sustaining and strengthening our education system and overall workforce for generations to come.”

Niue Primary School Principal Carol Edwards said the school has a full teaching staff of 24 for the upcoming school year, with only one administration role still vacant.

She explained that newly advertised vacancies for Niue Primary are in anticipation of the special needs building expected next year.

In the meantime, the Public Service Commission confirmed they received a promising number of applications, including two from overseas educators.

Interviews are underway, and officials are confident the vacancies will be filled in time for the new school year.