After gaining independence in 1970, Fiji witnessed the formation of the Fiji Teachers’ Confederation (FTC) and Fiji Teachers’ Association (FTA) to enhance their collective bargaining power. The Suva branch of FTC, led by President J Singh and Vice President Soubhagyawati Parshu Ram (the first female in this position), emerged around 1983. Ms. S.P. Ram happens to be the daughter of former Parliamentarian J.B. Tularam. In 1985, the Confederation initiated a significant teachers’ strike, which ultimately resulted in the establishment of the Fiji Labour Party. This new political party led to substantial transformations in Fijian politics, including two coups during the 1980s and 1990s.

To this day, both FTC and FTA continue to compete in attracting members. In 2005 and 2006, numerous FTA members opted to join FTC after the latter established a credit union offering favorable interest rates on savings.