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. This initiative allows families to receive their financial assistance ahead of the originally scheduled date of January 15, providing them with an additional two and a half weeks to prepare for the school year starting January 27, 2025.

In total, the program received 208,673 applications, of which 200,176 have been successfully processed, amounting to a substantial payout of $40.4 million. However, 8,313 applications remain on hold pending Year-12 exam results, which are required for students to officially enroll in Year 13.

Each child is eligible to receive $200 in support aimed at easing the financial burden associated with essential school expenses such as uniforms, shoes, school bags, and stationery. Parents and guardians can access these funds via digital platforms like MPAiSA and MyCASH or collect them from Post Fiji outlets. For families in maritime areas, funds can be collected at local Post Fiji agencies by presenting the child’s student ID for verification.

This Back-to-School Support initiative is part of the Coalition Government’s broader commitment to assist families, especially those with household incomes below $50,000. Historically, this program has provided support to around 200,000 students each year, representing an overall investment of approximately $130 million in educational assistance.

The early distribution of these funds not only offers important financial relief during the back-to-school season but also emphasizes the government’s commitment to fostering educational readiness. This initiative serves as a positive signal for families, ensuring that children are well-prepared as they embark on a new academic journey filled with opportunities.

The Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Education gratefully acknowledge the support of school heads, teachers, and parents throughout the application process, underscoring the critical role of community collaboration in ensuring educational success.

In summary, this early financial assistance fosters optimism among families, paving the way for students to embrace a new school year with confidence and readiness.