Polynesian French Education Minister Removed: Reasons & Reactions

French Polynesia’s Minister of Education, Ronny Teriipaia, is set to be removed from his position, according to reports emerging from Tahiti Infos and confirmed by statements from both Teriipaia and President Moetai Brotherson. The move, expected to be finalized by Friday, February 13th, follows internal disagreements over policy and a broader assessment of ministerial performance.

Policy Disagreements and Internal Criticism

The immediate catalyst for Teriipaia’s impending departure appears to be the cancellation of a license program in Métiers d’art et du design (Arts and Design Trades) at the Centre des métiers d’art. Teriipaia staunchly defended his decision, stating that the program lacked necessary safety provisions and should not have been implemented in its initial form. “The DMA training was doomed to failure! All the conditions, especially safety, were not met. At the time, this training should never have been put in place because everything needed was not there. I only followed the advice of the general inspection,” he stated.

However, President Brotherson offered a more encompassing explanation, suggesting that Teriipaia’s removal is part of a wider evaluation of ministerial effectiveness. “If it were only that… But no! At some point, we analyze the actions of ministers, and above all, their ability to deliver what needs to be delivered. Then we make decisions,” Brotherson reportedly said.

Broader Political Context and Previous Controversies

Teriipaia’s dismissal is the latest in a series of personnel changes within the Brotherson administration, following the departures or replacements of Éliane Tevahitua, Tevaiti Pomare, and Nahema Temarii. This suggests a period of recalibration within the government, as President Brotherson seeks to solidify his leadership and implement his policy agenda.

The situation is further complicated by a recent controversy involving Willy Vaiho, whose case Teriipaia claims was handled with the full support of the President. “Moetai was totally in agreement with the decision we took for Willy Vaiho. He said he had no problem with it,” Teriipaia asserted. This statement attempts to deflect criticism by highlighting a previous instance of alignment with Brotherson’s decisions.

Teriipaia’s Response and Future Plans

Despite the impending removal, Teriipaia maintains his integrity and refuses to resign voluntarily. “He [Brotherson] didn’t ask me to resign. He told me he was going to end my functions. He wants me to resign, but I don’t want to,” he stated. He also indicated he has a report to present to the Council of Ministers on Monday, February 9th, suggesting he intends to remain engaged in his duties until formally relieved of his position.

Looking ahead, Teriipaia plans to return to teaching, stating he would have a reduced course load of 12 hours per week. This suggests a willingness to step back from the political arena and return to his previous profession.

Implications for French Polynesian Education

The removal of the Education Minister comes at a critical juncture for French Polynesia’s education system. The territory has long grappled with the challenges of adapting a foreign (French) educational model to its unique societal and political context, as highlighted in a report by Broken Chalk. This has led to ongoing debates about language of instruction and the relevance of the curriculum to local needs.

past criticisms of the French education system in French Polynesia, such as those leveled by former President Oscar Temaru – who described it as producing “only idiots and unemployed people” – underscore the sensitivity surrounding educational policy. The elimination of two education inspector positions in 2011, denounced by then-Education Minister Tauhiti Nena as “brutal,” demonstrates a history of tensions between the local government and French authorities over control, and resources.

The incoming Education Minister will face the task of navigating these complex issues and addressing the ongoing need for educational reform. The cancellation of the Arts and Design Trades license program, while defended by Teriipaia, raises questions about the government’s commitment to vocational training and the development of creative industries within French Polynesia. The new minister will need to articulate a clear vision for the future of education in the territory and build consensus among stakeholders, including teachers, students, and the broader community.

“I am straight in my boots. I have always followed my line of conduct, which is equity for all.”

Ronny Teriipaia, Minister of Education

The situation remains fluid, and the full implications of Teriipaia’s departure will become clearer once a replacement is appointed and a new direction for the Ministry of Education is established. The coming days will be crucial in determining the future of education policy in French Polynesia.