Suva, Fiji: Parents and guardians in Fiji will begin receiving $200 Back-to-School Support payments starting tonight, as announced by the Minister for Finance, Prof. Biman Prasad. Initially slated for distribution on January 15, the early release aims to assist families in preparing for the upcoming school year, which commences on January 27, 2025.
Prof. Prasad reported that a total of 208,673 applications were submitted for this initiative, with 200,176 approved so far, equating to a total payout of $40.4 million. The minister noted that 8,313 applications are still on hold, pending Year-12 exam results.
The financial aid, designed to alleviate the costs of uniforms, school supplies, and other necessary items for children, will be disbursed through mobile payment platforms MPAiSA or MyCASH. This program is part of a broader effort by the Coalition Government to support families, particularly those with household incomes below $50,000, and it highlights a long-term commitment to aid around 200,000 students each year.
In recent years, over 200,000 students have benefitted from this financial support, with the government investing approximately $130 million annually in educational assistance. The timely rollout of this aid is especially significant as families face the financial demands of the back-to-school season, making education accessible for more children.
This initiative not only alleviates immediate financial burdens but also underscores the government’s dedication to fostering educational readiness and ensuring that all students have the resources they need to thrive academically. The positive impact of this support is a hopeful sign for families as they gear up for a successful school year ahead.
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