Ketan Lal, the Shadow Minister for Justice, has expressed concerns regarding the impact of rising living costs on Fijian families, urging universities to refrain from increasing their fees for the upcoming academic year. He acknowledged that fee reviews are a common practice; however, he emphasized that the current economic climate is not conducive to such actions.
Lal highlighted the financial strain that ordinary Fijians are experiencing due to soaring prices and ongoing economic challenges, remarking that universities should take this into account. He pointed out that while the Tertiary Scholarship and Loans Scheme (TSLS) is available to assist students, many might still opt for private education because of stringent bond requirements imposed by the Government, making any fee hike an additional burden for them.
He criticized Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s declaration of 2025 as a “special year,” arguing that such claims are unsubstantiated without real, actionable measures. Lal stated that merely expressing intentions will not alleviate the difficulties faced by families, and called for concrete solutions that address their needs and improve their quality of life.
The Opposition MP called for universities to demonstrate empathy and support by suspending any planned fee increases, urging the Government to ensure that education remains accessible for all. He concluded by asserting that true leadership requires actions that positively impact people’s lives, rather than empty rhetoric, stating, “Our students, the future of this nation, deserve better.”
This situation underscores the broader need for social and educational policies that prioritize the well-being of students and families, particularly during challenging economic times. A proactive approach could create a more sustainable pathway for education in Fiji, ensuring that financial pressures do not hinder access to learning and development opportunities.
In summary, Lal’s comments reflect a growing concern for educational accessibility amidst economic strife, inspiring a call for action from both educational institutions and the government to safeguard the future of young Fijians.
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