Independent parliamentarian Mosese Bulitavu has expressed his support for the Coalition Government’s $27.4 million investment in a Merit Based Higher Education – Level 7 Scheme. In a recent speech in Parliament, he highlighted that the initiative will provide 700 awards, which he believes offers a more effective approach than what was previously available.
Bulitavu pointed out that 100 of these awards will be specifically reserved for Year 13 students from rural and maritime areas. He emphasized the importance of this allocation, noting that during the previous administration, many students from these regions were excluded due to high cut-off marks.
He stated, “We are thankful that we are given 100 awards from the 700 awards that will be reserved for rural and maritime areas.” He also acknowledged that the educational standards in secondary schools in these areas differ from those in urban regions.
Additionally, Mr. Bulitavu praised the Coalition Government for its decision to allocate $1 million to the Tertiary Scholarships and Loans Service (TSLS) for an apprenticeship scheme. Under this plan, 50 percent of tuition fees will be covered, which he believes will incentivize employers to offer financial support to apprenticeship students or provide additional wages.