The Education Ministry is taking steps to remove barriers that prevent students from accessing scholarships and loan schemes, with a strong emphasis on learners in rural and maritime communities. Assistant Minister for Education Iliesa Vanawalu says the move will trim financial, geographical, and information hurdles, making higher education funding more reachable for those in remote areas.
A centerpiece of the plan is the Tertiary Scholarships and Loans Service (TSLS) introducing equity-based scholarships for rural and maritime students pursuing Level 7 programs in national priority areas offered locally. Vanawalu stressed the importance of considering social and economic challenges faced by students from these zones to tailor support accordingly, ensuring access to priority programs is truly equitable.
As part of the reset, TSLS is releasing its 2026 Scholarship Policies Handbook, which outlines all schemes, eligibility criteria, and how to apply. The handbook aims to provide clear, consistent guidance for students and educators alike, supporting smoother access to funding and study opportunities.
This reform comes within a broader pattern of expansion and modernization of TSLS. Recent developments include the rollout of digital platforms to streamline services for sponsored and graduate students, with features such as a mobile app, an integrated scholarship data platform, and portals designed to connect students with mentors, alumni, and prospective employers. These tools are designed to reduce processing times, improve transparency, and better match students with opportunities in the labour market.
The government’s continued investment in TSLS is also reflected in sustained funding and program growth reported in recent years. In 2025, TSLS supported thousands of students and expanded the roster of available scholarships and grants, signaling a strong commitment to building a skilled workforce. enhancements such as updated local allowances for scholars and a push to strengthen TVET-related support further underscore the aim of aligning education with national development and employment needs.
Looking ahead, the initiative seeks to create a more inclusive pathway to tertiary education, one that reaches beyond urban centers and into rural and maritime communities. If successfully implemented, the policy package could broaden opportunities, reduce brain drain, and equip Fiji’s youth with the skills needed to contribute to the country’s growth and innovation.
Additional comments:
– The emphasis on industry links and mentoring could help students transition more smoothly into the workforce, particularly in regional areas where guidance and networks may be limited.
– The integration of digital tools and a centralized handbook can improve transparency and uptake, but ongoing support will be crucial to ensure all students, including those with limited internet access, can engage.
– Monitoring and evaluation should track equity outcomes in rural and maritime regions to confirm that the new scholarships translate into increased access, completion rates, and meaningful employment.
Summary note:
– Fiji’s TSLS is expanding access to higher education funding for rural and maritime students through equity-based Level 7 scholarships in national priority areas, supported by a new 2026 Policy Handbook and broader modernization efforts including digital platforms and mentorship networks. The initiative aims to boost inclusivity, workforce readiness, and long-term development.
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