An island country situated between Tonga, Samoa, and the Cook Islands is facing a significant teacher shortage going into 2025.
Niue is a self-governing nation in free association with New Zealand.
According to the Broadcasting Corporation of Niue, there are 15 teacher vacancies. 11 at Niue high school, and four at Niue Primary.
The shortage is being blamed on health challenges, non-renewal of contracts, and a lack of adequate accommodation.
Guam has faced similar challenges. The territory’s Department of Education (GDOE) reports 53 teacher vacancies within four months into the school year.
But school decommissioning, driven by budget cuts and declining student populations, has helped reduce vacancies and a lack of certified teacher positions in Guam.
The Niue Public Service Commission said accommodating teachers from overseas is a long-standing issue for Niue.
Both islands are implementing long-term solutions, such as encouraging students to pursue education careers, supporting post-high school studies, and fostering community commitment to their islands.
