Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, has announced the successful early disbursement of Back-to-School Support payments for the 2025 academic year, aiming to provide families with essential financial assistance in advance of the original distribution date of January 15. This proactive initiative grants parents an additional two and a half weeks to prepare their children for school, which starts on January 27, 2025.

In total, 208,673 applications were processed, with 200,176 successfully approved, resulting in a substantial payout of $40.4 million. However, 8,313 applications are currently on hold as they await necessary Year-12 exam results for students to officially enroll in Year 13.

Eligible families will receive $200 per child, which is designed to alleviate financial burdens incurred from essential school expenses, such as uniforms, shoes, school bags, and stationery. Parents can access these funds through various digital platforms, including MPAiSA and MyCASH, or at Post Fiji outlets. For families located in maritime areas, the funds are available for collection at local Post Fiji agencies, with the requirement to present the child’s student ID for verification.

This initiative is part of the Coalition Government’s continued commitment to assisting families, especially those with household incomes below $50,000. Historically, this program has benefitted around 200,000 students annually, representing an investment of approximately $130 million in educational assistance over the years.

The early disbursement of funds signifies crucial financial relief during the back-to-school season and underscores the government’s dedication to fostering educational readiness and accessibility. This provides a hopeful outlook for families, ensuring that children are well-equipped for their academic journey ahead.

The Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Education express their gratitude to all individuals involved in the application process, reinforcing the importance of community collaboration in supporting education.

In summary, this early payment initiative stands as a promising support system for families navigating back-to-school costs, paving the way for a new academic year filled with possibilities for students.