The Ministry of Education has addressed the issue of some parents not receiving the $200 Back-to-School Support payment, primarily due to inaccuracies in the information submitted on application forms. Education Minister Aseri Radrodro has indicated that problems such as incorrect FEMIS ID numbers, Birth Registration Numbers, mobile details, and errors in payment methods are contributing to the delays. These complications have hindered families’ abilities to purchase essential school supplies for the new academic year.

Radrodro urged parents and guardians to ensure that application forms are accurately filled out at their respective schools, with each form requiring verification from the Head of School before the December 13, 2024 deadline. He also mentioned that inquiries from third parties—which violate confidentiality—along with late submissions from some schools, have exacerbated the situation.

For students entering Year 12 for the 2025 school year, timely submission of Back-to-School Support applications is crucial, as these applications will be processed following student enrollment.

In recent years, the government has shown a significant commitment to supporting families facing financial difficulties, processing over 208,000 applications and disbursing around 200,000 payments. This effort represents an annual investment of approximately $130 million aimed at easing the financial burden related to educational expenses, especially for families with incomes below $50,000.

While frustrations surrounding the payment delays have been voiced by some parents, the Ministry is actively working on resolving these issues. The ongoing collaboration between the Ministry, local schools, and families indicates a hopeful outlook for the upcoming school year—highlighting the importance of accurate information and strong community ties in supporting educational journeys.

Ultimately, the proactive measures being undertaken by the Ministry reflect a genuine commitment to ensuring that all families receive the necessary support for a smooth transition into the academic year. With continued cooperation, there is optimism that families will soon benefit from this vital financial aid, enabling children to start the school year prepared and ready for learning.