The Ministry of Finance has reported that a total of $41 million has been distributed to support students under the Back-to-School Support initiative for the 2025 academic year. So far, 203,492 students across the nation have received this funding. The first batch of payments, amounting to $40.4 million, was made to 200,176 students on January 10, followed by a second batch that provided assistance to 3,316 students on January 20.

For Year 12 students intending to enroll in 2025, the Ministry is currently holding back on disbursement until confirmation of their enrollment, which affects approximately 8,313 students. Additionally, about 900 applications are experiencing issues that the Ministry is in the process of resolving. The Ministry of Finance has urged parents and guardians to verify the status of their applications with school administrators, particularly in cases where applications may have been submitted late.

This funding initiative has been designed to ease the financial burden of necessary school expenses such as uniforms, shoes, and stationery. Each eligible child is set to receive $200, a vital support aimed at assisting families, especially those with incomes below $50,000. Accessing these funds can be done through digital platforms like MPAiSA and MyCASH, or in-person at Post Fiji outlets, which is particularly helpful for families residing in maritime regions.

This early and proactive distribution of funds exemplifies the government’s commitment to supporting families and ensuring educational readiness. With preparations for the new school year, which begins on January 27, gaining traction, this financial assistance is a beacon of hope for many families, allowing children to step into their academic journeys equipped with essential resources.

In conclusion, the ongoing collaboration between the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Education, along with strong community support, reflects a concerted effort to facilitate accessibility to education. This initiative not only underscores the importance of educational readiness but also signals a positive outlook for families gearing up for a new academic year filled with possibilities and opportunities.