The Fiji Teachers Union (FTU) is urging parents to assess their children’s past academic achievements and to establish realistic goals for the upcoming academic year. FTU General Secretary, Muniappa Goundar, stressed the essential role of parental support in ensuring that students flourish in their educational pursuits. He emphasized, “Active encouragement from home is critical for students to thrive academically.”

As families prepare for the new school year, it’s advisable not to leave preparations until the last minute. Goundar recommends prioritizing quality over quantity when purchasing school essentials like uniforms, stationery, and textbooks. He mentioned that creating a nurturing learning environment at home is just as vital as providing the necessary materials.

In parallel, Education Minister Aseri Radrodro announced that the government would distribute $200 Back-to-School support earlier than originally planned, facilitating ample time for families to organize their children’s educational necessities. This financial aid, available through MPAiSA, MyCASH, and Post Fiji outlets, is designed to alleviate economic pressures for families, particularly those with incomes below $50,000.

The $200 assistance, designed for families with children enrolled from Early Childhood Education to Secondary schools, aims to ease the financial burden incurred while buying school items. With over 200,000 students benefitting from this initiative each year, the commitment of the government to education remains strong, representing about $130 million in annual support for educational needs.

In conclusion, both parental involvement and supportive government initiatives are crucial in preparing students for success as they embark on their academic journeys. Families are encouraged to take proactive steps to ensure their children have a smooth transition into the new school year, reflecting a hopeful and positive outlook for education in Fiji.