The Tertiary Scholarship and Loans Service Board is gearing up to enhance educational access for the upcoming financial year, emphasizing inclusivity and addressing learning disparities particularly in rural and maritime areas. This initiative aligns with the coalition government’s diversified scholarship policies aimed at fostering wider educational opportunities for all Fijians.
CEO Hasmukh Lal highlighted an increase in the number of students from varied socio-economic backgrounds benefiting from the TSLS’s scholarship, loan, and grant programs. He acknowledged the persistent learning challenges and disparities that exist, asserting the need for equitable access to educational resources.
In a progressive step, the board plans to focus its national budget submissions for 2025–2026 on supporting students, especially those who have dropped out of school, and exploring vocational scholarships as part of their future strategies. This mirrors previous announcements about the government’s commitment to investing in educational infrastructure to create a more skilled workforce and mitigate issues of brain drain.
Echoing sentiments from earlier reports, the TSLS has been applauded for its continued investment in educational programs, with a historical allocation of funds leading to soaring scholarship applications. For instance, the organization previously reported a dramatic rise in scholarship applications from 4,000 in 2023 to 8,700 in the first semester of 2025, showcasing an encouraging trend in educational engagement among Fijians.
These initiatives signal a hopeful outlook for the education sector in Fiji, reinforcing the government’s commitment to ensure that every student, regardless of their background, has the chance to thrive and contribute to the nation’s growth. The planned enhancements aim not only to provide immediate support but also to cultivate an environment that supports lasting educational success.
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