Fiji Unveils $40 Million Back-to-School Support Program for Families

The Fijian Government has officially opened applications for the 2025 Back-to-School Support program aimed at helping low-income families manage the costs associated with education. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, emphasized the government’s dedication to alleviating financial pressures on households.

Prasad expressed a clear intention, stating, “We believe no child should miss out because of financial difficulties.” The goal of the initiative is straightforward: to ensure that every child in Fiji starts the academic year fully equipped with necessities such as uniforms, shoes, bags, lunch boxes, and stationery, allowing parents to focus on education rather than expenses.

Now in its third year, the program has already distributed a significant $87 million in financial support across the nation. In the previous budget, $42.5 million was allocated, impacting 212,740 students. For the 2024-2025 budget, a further $40 million has been earmarked, specifically designed for families earning a combined annual income of $50,000 or less, which includes students from Early Childhood Education (ECE) up to Year 13.

Professor Prasad highlighted the ease of the application process, with forms readily available in schools and online. To facilitate this, teachers and school heads will assist in verifying application details and ensuring timely submission. Importantly, the government will cover any service fees, guaranteeing that each parent receives the full $200 support.

“This program shows our commitment to giving every Fijian child an equal chance at education,” Prof Prasad remarked. Payments will be distributed through Vodafone M-PAiSA and Digicel MyCASH, with Post Fiji providing help to families in more remote areas. Applications are open now and will close on December 6, 2024, fostering optimism for families seeking educational support.

This initiative highlights the government’s ongoing commitment to education and social welfare, providing hope and assistance to families striving to give their children a better future. The emphasis on simplicity and accessibility in the application process is a positive step towards inclusivity in education across Fiji.