Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, has announced the successful and early distribution of Back-to-School Support payments for the 2025 academic year. The payments were processed ahead of the planned date of January 15, allowing families an extra two and a half weeks to prepare for the new school year, which begins on January 27, 2025.

This year’s initiative received a substantial number of applications, totaling 208,673, with 200,176 of those applications successfully processed. This resulted in a significant payout of $40.4 million. However, 8,313 applications are currently on hold while awaiting Year-12 exam results, which are necessary for students to officially enroll in Year 13.

Eligible families will receive $200 per child, aimed at alleviating financial pressures associated with essential school expenses such as uniforms, shoes, school bags, and stationery. These funds can be accessed through digital platforms like MPAiSA and MyCASH, as well as at Post Fiji locations. For families in maritime areas, funds can be collected at local Post Fiji agencies by presenting the child’s student ID for verification.

The Back-to-School Support initiative forms a key part of the Coalition Government’s commitment to assist families, particularly those with a household income under $50,000. Historically, this program has supported approximately 200,000 students each year, contributing a cumulative investment of around $130 million in educational assistance since its inception.

This proactive approach not only eases financial challenges for families during the back-to-school period but also emphasizes the government’s dedication to fostering educational preparedness. It sends a hopeful message to families, ensuring children embark on their academic journeys well-equipped with the necessary resources. The Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Education express their gratitude to school heads, teachers, and parents for their continued support throughout the application process, highlighting the importance of community collaboration in supporting education.

In summary, the timely disbursement of these funds is a positive sign for families. It underscores the government’s commitment to providing educational resources, paving the way for a successful and bright future for students.