Some teachers are still waiting to receive updated Government Remuneration Tribunal (GRT) pay rates 18 months after the changes were announced, according to the Vanuatu Teachers Union.

The union says the issue remains unresolved despite progress on another matter raised in its recent 30-day dispute notice to the Government.

VTU Secretary General Jonathan Yonah said teachers who took part in strike action and some who were suspended have yet to be migrated to the new pay rates introduced in December 2024.

“Some of our members are still not inside the GRT rate after around 18 months. That’s a very long time.” 

The union acknowledged the Government’s response to its first concern after receiving an appointment letter for members of the Joint Monitoring Committee, which was due to be established under a Collective Bargaining Agreement signed in December 2025.

However, Yonah said the outstanding pay issue remains the union’s main concern.

“We don’t want this claim to build up over many years and become a huge amount for Government to pay. We believe it is better to settle it while we are still at one year and six months.”

Yonah said resolving the matter now would prevent larger financial claims in the future and ensure affected teachers receive the rates they are entitled to.