Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, has announced that the Back-to-School Support payments for the 2025 academic year have been processed and disbursed earlier than initially planned. This proactive initiative allows families an additional two and a half weeks to prepare for the new school year, which begins on January 27, 2025, and was originally set for payment on January 15.

This year, a total of 208,673 applications were received, with 200,176 successfully processed, resulting in a significant disbursement of $40.4 million. However, 8,313 applications remain on hold pending Year-12 examination results necessary for students to officially enroll in Year 13.

Under this support initiative, each child is eligible for $200, aimed at helping families manage essential school expenses such as uniforms, shoes, school bags, and stationery. Parents and guardians can access the payments through digital platforms like MPAiSA and MyCASH, or can collect them at Post Fiji outlets. For families residing in maritime areas, funds are available at local Post Fiji agencies, requiring the child’s student ID for verification.

The Back-to-School Support initiative is part of the Coalition Government’s commitment to assist families, particularly those with household incomes under $50,000. Since its inception, the program has benefitted around 200,000 students annually, representing an overall investment of approximately $130 million in educational assistance.

The early distribution of these funds reflects the government’s dedication to fostering educational preparedness and eases financial pressure during the back-to-school season. It serves as a positive sign, ensuring that children are well-equipped as they embark on their new academic journeys brimming with promise and opportunities.

In conclusion, the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Education extend their gratitude to all school heads, teachers, and parents for their collaboration during the application process, emphasizing the importance of community support in enhancing educational success. This initiative not only alleviates immediate financial challenges but also signals a hopeful approach towards educational accessibility and readiness for families.