The Tertiary Scholarship and Loan Services (TSLS) has allocated $1.44 billion to support around 70,000 students over the last decade, showcasing a substantial commitment of taxpayer funds to Fiji’s education sector. This financial support has played a critical role in advancing tertiary education and training programs, underscoring the government’s focus on enhancing higher education.
During a parliamentary session, Education Minister Aseri Radrodro informed lawmakers that while previously all students meeting academic criteria at various tertiary institutions qualified for loans, this is no longer the case. He highlighted that many students have gained admission to different university programs but are pursuing their studies privately because they do not qualify for scholarships or loans. Currently, about 19,000 students find themselves in this predicament.
Minister Radrodro noted that the prior administration had established a sustainable funding model for tertiary education, creating a revolving fund intended to assist future students seeking tertiary qualifications. However, he criticized the current government for adopting an unsustainable financial approach, which results in taxpayers contributing approximately $150 million each year to support tertiary education.
Additionally, he mentioned that the government has implemented a 50 percent penalty on students who breach their bonds to pursue opportunities abroad.