This year, the Tertiary Scholarships and Loans Service (TSLS) has reached a significant milestone, supporting over 20,000 students with scholarships, loans, and grants. Of these recipients, iTaukei students made up the majority, securing more than 70% of the new scholarships awarded. In a recent session of Parliament, Education Minister Aseri Radrodro reported that 20,746 students benefited from TSLS in 2025, marking the highest level of assistance since 2020.
Minister Radrodro highlighted the government’s commitment to preparing students not only for employment but also to take on roles as leaders and innovators in their communities. The distribution of new scholarships shows a clear demographic trend: of the 8,700 new scholarships granted, iTaukei students received 6,181 (71%), while Fijians of Indian descent received 2,278 (26%). Only a small fraction was awarded to Rotuman, Chinese, and other ethnic groups.
A notable development this year is the increase in female scholarship recipients, who accounted for 55% of all awards, which the minister described as a “positive shift toward gender empowerment.” This is part of broader efforts by the government to enhance women’s access to education and promote inclusivity.
The government has also focused on enhancing scholarships in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sectors such as automotive, tourism, and construction, ensuring that educational opportunities align with labor market demands. This initiative is part of a strategic approach to equip students with relevant skills necessary for the workforce.
Applications are currently open for Semester 2 and the second round of the Skills Qualification Scheme, inviting more students to take advantage of the educational resources available.
Overall, the concerted efforts to enhance educational opportunities reflect a robust commitment to fostering a skilled workforce and supporting economic growth in Fiji. These developments signal a hopeful future where students are empowered to succeed in both their professional and personal endeavors.
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