The Education Ministry’s finance unit has raised alarms over heads of schools signing blank cheques and failing to follow strict procurement policies, fueling concerns about how funds are spent and who ultimately governs school purchases. Finance director Thomas Prasad shared the update at the Fiji Head Teachers Association’s 42nd annual conference in Nadi, noting that some blank signatures have been detected and that certain heads are linked to other stakeholders, which could distort procurement processes.
“The [heads of schools] signing blank cheques—we’ve noticed this,” Prasad said. “You know who you are, and these are some of the things that we’ve picked up.” He warned that such practices compromise the school manager’s ability to sign procurement forms and, in turn, affect the delivery of services to students.
Prasad added that resources and training on procurement have been provided, urging heads to uphold the standard so that children see capable leadership in their schools. “You are there, you have been appointed to that role, and we hope that you’re able to uphold that standard so that the children are able to see you and see a leader in you,” he stated. He also questioned whether some heads’ leadership abilities were being tested by their handling of procurement.
This issue sits within a broader context of ongoing scrutiny over financial management in Fiji’s schools. In recent years, the Ministry has reported cases of fund misappropriation and referred investigations to the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). An Audit Unit has been reviewing financial entries from schools, and officials have stressed that proper record-keeping is essential for ongoing funding and trust in public education.
Looking ahead, education officials say tighter controls, clearer spending guidelines, and regular performance checks are essential to ensure funds reach intended projects and benefit students. The emphasis on accountability and training is aimed at restoring public confidence and safeguarding resources for classrooms and learning outcomes.
Commentary and context: The renewed focus on procurement integrity and leadership accountability aligns with a pattern of efforts to improve financial governance in schools. By combining training with stricter oversight and timely investigations when irregularities arise, the ministry signals a commitment to protecting students’ interests while reinforcing transparent, responsible stewardship of education funds. If implemented effectively, these measures could lead to more consistent project delivery, better record-keeping, and a stronger sense of trust among teachers, parents, and communities.
Summary: The ministry is tightening procurement controls and reinforcing leadership accountability after spotting blank cheque signatures, with training already in place and ongoing oversight to ensure financial resources serve students and education goals.
Positive note: There is cautious optimism that enhanced oversight and clear standards will reduce missteps, improve fund governance, and ultimately strengthen support for Fiji’s schools and their students.
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