A renewed call has emerged for the Government to reassess its free education assistance program, as concerns grow that financial aid alone is insufficient to alleviate the hardships faced by struggling families. Nirmala Nambiar, executive coordinator of the Foundation for the Education of the Needy Children in Fiji, has taken the lead in urging this review.
Nambiar acknowledged that while the Government’s assistance has benefited many families, real-life situations reveal a much deeper struggle that monetary support cannot adequately address. With the rising cost of living, many families are finding it increasingly difficult to make ends meet, impacting their ability to provide for their children.
She pointed out that numerous parents are overwhelmed by financial pressures, unable to manage basic living expenses. In particular, families with multiple children often find it hard to put food on the table.
The situation is particularly dire for many single mothers, as Nambiar noted her experiences with women who are caring for several children without any support from their partners. “We frequently encounter single mothers caring for five children without support from the father. It is incredibly challenging,” she remarked.
This plea for re-evaluation follows comments from Sugar Minister Charan Jeath Singh, who highlighted that, despite the provision of free education, numerous children in Fiji still encounter significant obstacles to accessing education. These barriers range from economic challenges and health issues to a lack of available resources.
The growing consensus among advocates is that a comprehensive approach is necessary to address the underlying issues families face, beyond mere financial assistance. As the conversation continues, there is hope that the Government will take actionable steps toward creating a more supportive framework for families in need, fostering a pathway to a brighter future for the children of Fiji.
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