The Consumer Council of Fiji is advising parents and guardians to adopt a disciplined and strategic approach to their spending as they prepare children for the 2026 academic year. This guidance follows the government’s provision of a $200 Back-to-School Assistance, which aims to aid families in covering essential educational expenses.
Seema Shandil, the Chief Executive Officer of the Consumer Council, highlighted the importance of utilizing this financial support wisely, emphasizing that the funds should primarily go toward crucial school-related costs rather than unnecessary purchases. Shandil encouraged parents to be strategic shoppers, urging them to focus on acquiring essentials for their children’s education.
Parents are advised to compare prices and prioritize quality while shopping. Additionally, they should retain purchase receipts to facilitate any necessary returns or address complaints regarding the items bought.
Kaveni Waqawai, a parent from Cunningham, Suva, reiterated the need for balancing affordability and quality. “Make sure you go for quality and the cheapest stationery for your children, and make sure you keep your receipts,” Waqawai advised. The importance of wise spending is underscored by the fact that the assistance is intended specifically for the students’ needs.
Mili Seru, who traveled from Nadi to acquire school supplies, echoed similar sentiments as the new school year approaches. “We are now in the second week of January and preparing our kids for school,” Seru said, reminding aid recipients to focus their spending on essentials.
The Consumer Council will continue monitoring market practices throughout the back-to-school shopping season and encourages consumers to report any instances of unfair pricing or substandard products. This proactive stance aims to bolster consumer protection and ensure families effectively utilize the government assistance for its intended purpose.
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