The Ministry of Education has referred instances of fund misappropriation in schools to the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC).
These cases concern schools that received funding for specific projects but failed to submit receipts, with many projects either incomplete or never initiated.
Ilisoni Waqa, the Principal Education Officer at the Ministry of Education’s Assets and Infrastructure Services, disclosed this information, stating, “We have referred cases for audit and FICAC is conducting interviews and requesting documents. We have been assisting them by providing the evidence they need to support their investigations and resolve these pending issues.”
When inquired about the total number of schools involved, he mentioned, “I don’t have the numbers with me, but I will get back to you,” and did not provide additional details on the schools in question.
At Nasoki Village, there was a request for aid to finish a double-storey classroom. Waqa confirmed that help was offered, yet the school did not provide any receipts to document this assistance.
He underscored the critical need for proper management of government funds and the importance of thorough documentation. “When funds are given to schools, we expect them to be used for their intended purpose. Schools with good records are more likely to receive funding for future projects,” Waqa added.
He urged schools to maintain detailed records of receipts for all funds utilized for projects.