Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, has announced that payments for the Back-to-School Support for the 2025 school year have been successfully processed and distributed ahead of the initial date of January 15. This proactive move provides families with an additional two and a half weeks to prepare for the academic year, which officially begins on January 27, 2025.

The initiative has seen a total of 208,673 applications, with 200,176 being approved, amounting to a substantial payout of $40.4 million. However, 8,313 applications remain on hold as they await results from Year-12 exams that are required for students to enroll in Year 13.

Eligible families will receive $200 per child, intended to help ease the financial burden associated with essential school expenses like uniforms, shoes, school bags, and stationery. Parents and guardians can access these funds through various digital platforms such as MPAiSA and MyCASH, as well as at Post Fiji locations. For those living in maritime areas, the funds can be collected at local Post Fiji agencies upon presenting a child’s student ID for verification.

This support initiative is a key part of the Coalition Government’s commitment to assist families, especially those with household incomes under $50,000. Historically, the program has benefitted around 200,000 students each year, contributing a total investment of approximately $130 million in educational assistance since it began.

The early disbursement of these funds not only alleviates financial pressures during the back-to-school season but also highlights the government’s commitment to promoting educational readiness. This initiative offers a hopeful outlook for families, ensuring that children are equipped with the necessary resources as they embark on their academic journeys.

The Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Education have expressed their gratitude to school heads, teachers, and parents for their cooperation throughout the application process, emphasizing the importance of community support in enhancing educational success. This collaborative effort significantly contributes to fostering a supportive environment for students as they prepare for a new school year filled with promise and opportunities.