A recent audit indicates that Fiji’s Tertiary Students Loan Scheme (TSLS) has suffered a substantial financial deficit of approximately $160 million over the last ten years. During a parliamentary session, Education Minister Aseri Radrodro shared this information while answering a question from Opposition MP Alipate Tuicolo.
Radrodro revealed that 21,685 students who participated in the scheme from 2013 to 2023 have either absconded, ceased their studies, or have yet to graduate, resulting in the expiration of their bond terms. Mr. Tuicolo had asked for specifics regarding the number of students enrolled in the TSLS who failed to complete their education at their respective institutions.
The Minister stated, “From 2014 to 2023, there were 21,685 students who have either absconded, are inactive, or are yet to graduate, equating to an investment of about $160 million.” He also noted that while he could not disclose details by institution, those institutions possess data on students facing probation, suspension, and non-completion.
Furthermore, Radrodro mentioned that between 2014 and 2019, students with very low academic performance were granted TELS loans to pursue degree programs, which contributed to the elevated non-completion rate. Technical colleges were also cited as a factor in these statistics.
The Fijian Parliament has approved amendments to the TSLS Act aimed at obtaining information about academically ‘at risk’ students. This data will help develop remedial plans within tertiary education institutions to detect early signs of struggle and provide support aimed at lowering the non-completion rate.