A custom ceremony took place last week on Tanna Island, involving local teachers and the Nikolatan Tanna Island Council of Chiefs, following the strike and suspension of teachers currently ongoing across the country.
A traditional ceremony on Tanna Island saw local chiefs rallying behind teachers who were recently suspended following a nationwide strike. The chiefs submitted a formal letter of concern to the Ministry of Education, appealing for the reinstatement of these teachers, citing the negative impact on the education of local children.
The Nikolatan Tanna Island Council of Chiefs led the ceremony, symbolising the teachers’ appeal for assistance. Chiefs on Tanna expressed concerns that the current suspension threatens the future of Vanuatu’s education and have urged the government to carefully reconsider decisions affecting local schools.
Chiefs Seek a Constructive Solution
In Tanna, it is customary for those seeking support to come to the nakamal with a mat, chicken, or kava. The Chairman of the Nikolatan Island Council of Chiefs said that this cultural approach to solving disputes, stating that the council will formally approach both provincial and national authorities. “We hope they recognise the concerns of the chiefs, particularly regarding children affected by these decisions. Our letter urges consideration of the reinstatement of suspended teachers, as these children are from our communities.”
Chief Peter Marcel Nikiatu further said that the chiefs’ concerns about the potential impact on Vanuatu’s education. He appealed to the government and the Teaching Service Commission to exercise caution in decisions that could undermine the education system.
“We urge that replacements are professionals from within Vanuatu, not unqualified individuals,” Chief Nikiatu said. “Our teachers need support so they can return to service; they have a deep commitment to our education system.”
VBTC News reports that chiefs have submitted a letter of concern to the Education Office on Tanna. The Vanuatu Teachers Union has 30 members on the island that are currently suspended.
