The Ministry of Education has issued a statement regarding the delayed $200 Back-to-School Support payments for certain parents and guardians, attributed to inaccurate or incomplete information on submitted applications. Education Minister Aseri Radrodro noted that some families are encountering difficulties in accessing these essential funds, affecting their ability to purchase necessary school supplies.
To address these challenges, Radrodro emphasized that application forms should have been completed at schools, where the information would be verified by the Head of School prior to the December 13, 2024, deadline. He pointed out specific issues contributing to the delays, including incorrect FEMIS ID numbers, Birth Registration Numbers, mobile numbers, and payment modes. Moreover, breaches of confidentiality through third-party inquiries and late submissions from some schools have exacerbated the situation.
Minister Radrodro specified that Year 12 students are required to submit their applications for the 2025 Back-to-School Support to their schools before the deadline, as these applications will be processed upon enrollment for the upcoming school year.
This ongoing initiative aims to provide significant financial assistance to families, particularly those with household incomes below $50,000, in managing school-related expenses. Previous reports highlighted that the government has processed over 208,000 applications, with around 200,000 payments successfully disbursed, amounting to considerable financial relief for countless families as they gear up for the academic year.
While some parents continue to struggle with application difficulties, the Ministry remains committed to resolving these issues and streamlining the process for timely support. The collaborative efforts between educational institutions and the Ministry are vital for ensuring families are well-prepared for the school year ahead.
In summary, while the situation presents some challenges, it also demonstrates the government’s dedication to supporting educational access and assisting families in overcoming financial barriers to schooling. This proactive approach can be seen as a hopeful gesture towards enhancing educational opportunities for all students.
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