Port Vila, October 3^rd 2025, Vanuatu – Prime Minister Jotham Napat apologized on behalf of past governments today to more than 400 teachers at Saralana Park on behalf of the Government before delivering his address to mark the World International Teachers Day. The emotional moment brought tears to many teachers who later met him to offer their sincere gratitude for saying “sorry” at an opportune time, as they finally felt heard and recognized after years of trying to get the authorities to listen.

 In a significant gesture, Prime Minister Napat spoke directly to the teachers' concerns, while acknowledging their prolonged suffering for almost 20 years. He expressed deep regret for the government's inaction, partly because of a lack of leadership at all levels and proper planning and resourcing at the Teaching Services Commission and the Ministry of Education levels. "We understand that this issue has lingered for far too long, and for that, we are truly sorry. We commit to doing better and ensuring that our educators are treated with the respect and fairness they deserve," he said.

 Prior to the Prime Minister’s address, Minister for Finance, Johnny Koanapo, provided clarifications and assurances that the government remains committed to sorting out all verified teachers' claims. "We are dedicated to resolving this matter in a fair and transparent manner. Our priority is to ensure that all legitimate claims are addressed, and we will work diligently to achieve this. He made it clear that the funds allocated are available to begin sorting out the remainder of the outstanding claims once the current verification processes are completed.

 Chairman of the Government’s CBA Taskforce appointed by the Prime Minister, Benjamin Shing provided some useful background and context for the long delay – highlighting disparities in the records and data held by the Ministry of Education, the Teaching Services Commission and the Vanuatu Teachers Union, which needs a lot harmonizing over the next week or so.

 He also pointed out that there is an immediate need for reforming and strengthening the capacity of the Teaching Service Commission (TSC).

 "The TSC, responsible for over 4,000 teachers, operates with only 10 staff, compared to the Public Service Commission, which has over 200 staff for less than 2,000 employees. This disparity contributed significantly to the challenges we face today," the First PA of the Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Taskforce said.

 With the verification process set to begin on Monday, October 6 2025, the Government and all parties involved are optimistic about resolving the matter within the next week or so before the strikers can return to class.

 Meanwhile, Secretary General of the Vanuatu Teachers Union (VTU) Jonathan Yona, expressed his deep appreciation to the Government for its strong commitment, even when at times they dragged their feet out of frustration and anger.

 The government appreciates the patience and understanding of the teachers and is committed to working collaboratively towards a fair and sustainable solution.

Port Vila, 5^th September 2025 – Senior Officials from the Government of the Republic of Vanuatu and the Republic of Fiji successfully concluded their bilateral Maritime Boundary Delimitation talks this week 4^th – 5^th September 2025, in Port Vila, Vanuatu.

The boundary talks between the two countries officially began in 2012, with the most recent discussions taking place in Suva, Fiji, in 2019. These talks were interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, which temporarily halted diplomatic engagements. The resumption of the discussions is a significant step toward strengthening bilateral cooperation and advancing mutual maritime interests.

The talks were held in the true Melanesian spirit of goodwill and mutual understanding, with a shared commitment to resolving the maritime boundary issues in a time-bound manner.  A Melanesian approach to resolving the outstanding issue was also highlighted during the talks.

Officials from both countries agreed that any median line drawn to separate them should be viewed as a “cultural bridge” rather than a colonial one –  a bridge that defines and connects the two country’s historical and cultural Melanesian heritage.

Through an agreed outcome document signed this morning, both delegations reaffirmed their dedication to completing the outstanding maritime boundary delimitation through diplomatic dialogue and cooperation, in a timely and Melanesian fashion.