The government is set to launch its Back to School Assistance Program applications tomorrow, open until December 12, 2025, aimed at providing $200 to eligible families per child ahead of the 2026 school year. This initiative, introduced by Finance Minister Esrom Immanuel, underscores the administration’s commitment to education, affirming that it is a right for every child, not a privilege.
Reflecting on past success, Immanuel noted that the program has significantly impacted students over the last few years. In 2023, over 223,000 students received support totaling $44.7 million. This dropped slightly in 2024, with 212,000 students benefiting from $42.5 million. The following year saw approximately 213,000 students receive $42.7 million in funds. For 2026, the government has allocated a budget of $40 million to maintain this critical program, which is available to students from early childhood education (ECE) through Year 13, targeting families with a combined annual income of $50,000 or less.
Parents can acquire application forms from schools or download them from the websites of the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Finance. To complete the verification process, forms must be submitted to schools for validation and then uploaded to the FEMIS system. Notably, families already receiving full transport subsidies or blue cards can submit a simplified form, while those without assistance must ensure all sections are completed, including income verification.
Payment for those moving from Year 12 to Year 13 will occur following the confirmation of exam results and enrollment for 2026. Payments will be processed through digital platforms like Vodafone M-PAiSA and Digicel MyCash, with disbursements starting from January 15, 2026. This initiative emphasizes the importance of proper preparation for families entering the new academic year, providing a positive outlook for students poised for educational success.
Since its inception three years ago, the Back to School Assistance Program has cumulatively supported over 649,000 students, reflecting a governmental investment of approximately $180 million in education, showcasing a firm dedication to fostering equitable access to educational resources across the nation. As families prepare for the upcoming school year, this program serves as a vital lifeline, helping to ease financial burdens and ensure that all children have the essentials needed to thrive in their academic endeavors.
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