Psychologist Selina Kuruleca is set to assume the role of Permanent Secretary for Education next Tuesday, Fiji’s Coalition Government confirms, adding that the lead minister, Aseri Radrodro, has assured stakeholders and the public that any past issues have been resolved, stating that “everything else is water under the bridge.”
The confirmation comes two weeks after Radrodro told the media in Suva that while he respected Kuruleca as a professional and a friend, he concurred with the teachers union in Fiji that she may not be the right fit. He was of the view that the ministry needs someone who has led at the leadership level at the ministry and is familiar with the workings of the ministry in part because he was not from the sector as well, and out of a need to “respect” and mend relations with the teachers’ unions to avoid high turnovers within the ministry.
However, in a statement posted today on Facebook, the Fiji Government announced that Radrodro, currently acting Minister for iTaukei Affairs, respects the decision of Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and is willing to work with Kuruleca. Their focus will be on providing support to teachers and ensuring a holistic education for students.
Radrodro also extended his gratitude to Timoci Bure for “holding the fort in ensuring that the education of all our Fijian children is not hindered” after Anjeela Jokhan was suspended and later resigned from the position in January this year.
Kuruleca was initially appointed to the post in late May and was scheduled to begin her role on July 3.
