“Back-to-School Funds: A Call for Responsible Use by Parents”

The Education Ministry is calling on parents and guardians to use the $200 back-to-school assistance for its intended purpose: supporting their children’s educational needs. Education Minister Aseri Radrodro has raised concerns over instances where some parents have diverted these funds for personal use rather than purchasing essential school supplies.

During a recent visit to Vanuabalavu, Radrodro highlighted a recurring issue where children are sent to live with relatives, like grandparents in villages, while their parents fail to ensure that the financial aid is used properly. For example, he cited a case of a mother in Suva who applied for the assistance but misused the funds for her own needs instead of providing materials for her children’s schooling.

Radrodro stressed the importance of using this financial aid responsibly, particularly for single mothers, to adequately prepare their children for school. He advised those whose grandchildren attend schools on Viti Levu to avoid requesting their children to send their grandchildren to live with them in the village, emphasizing the ministry’s commitment to ensuring that the funds are utilized for educational purposes.

In addition to the misuse of funds, other pressing issues affecting the education sector were discussed, such as the lack of adequate accommodation for teachers and the phenomenon of teachers transferring to different schools without notifying the ministry.

This emphasis on responsible use of educational assistance aligns with previous comments made by both Radrodro and Finance Minister Biman Prasad, who have underlined the significance of this support as families navigate rising living costs and the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. The government aims to assist around 200,000 students each year, allocating approximately $130 million to support families with lower incomes.

As the new school year approaches, the government’s initiative to ensure proper utilization of financial aid is crucial for promoting educational readiness among students. This commitment not only underscores a hopeful outlook for families striving to provide their children with necessary resources for academic success but also reinforces the importance of community involvement in supporting educational goals.