The Fiji Ministry of Education has recently articulated the reasons some parents and guardians have not yet received the $200 Back-to-School Support intended for this academic year. Minister Aseri Radrodro cited issues such as incorrect identification numbers, birth registration errors, erroneous mobile contact details, and incorrect payment methods (such as TMO, MPaisa, or MyCash) as contributing factors.

Minister Radrodro emphasized the importance of confidentiality, noting that inquiries made by third parties are considered a breach. He urged parents to ensure their applications were submitted on time, with correct details verified by school heads before the deadline, which was December 13, 2024. Applications will be addressed once students are officially enrolled for the 2025 school year.

Previously, Finance Minister Biman Prasad had urged families to inquire about any pending applications and highlighted that the government has processed over 208,000 applications, resulting in 200,000 payments being made so far. Many families have expressed the significance of this financial support as they prepare their children for school. For instance, several parents have voiced frustrations regarding delays in receiving assistance, which they consider crucial for buying necessary school supplies.

This financial aid program represents a significant commitment by the government to alleviate the burden of educational expenses, especially for families with incomes below $50,000. With a total investment of approximately $130 million each year supporting about 200,000 students, this initiative reflects ongoing efforts to bolster educational accessibility across communities.

In summary, while some parents are experiencing delays due to application inaccuracies, the government’s intent to rectify these issues and ensure proper distribution of funds signals a hopeful future for many families preparing for the upcoming school year. The cooperative efforts between the Ministry of Education and local schools play an essential role in overcoming these challenges, ensuring families are well-equipped for their children’s educational journeys ahead.