The Ministry of Education has fast-tracked the payment of salary arrears owed to 318 staff members, with payments expected in Pay 17 and Pay 18.

In a recent statement released, Education Minister Aseri Radrodro says delays were caused by internal and compliance issues affecting the processing of salaries.

The Ministry says some common issues included missing FTRA registration certificates, bank details, and confirmation of commencement dates from Heads of Schools or District Education Officers.

Radrodro is urging affected teachers to ensure all appointment documents are complete and properly submitted to avoid further delays.

He says appointments must be formally processed and signed by the Permanent Secretary for Education before teachers report to schools.

The Minister also thanked teachers for their continued work and acknowledged the approval by the Prime Minister for the payment of the outstanding arrears.

He says the welfare of Ministry staff remains a priority and the payments recognise their important role in educating children across Fiji.

BY: JOELI RAGONELIWA