The Shadow Minister for Justice, Ketan Lal, has raised concerns regarding the potential increase in university fees for the upcoming academic year amidst the ongoing rise in living costs affecting Fijian families. He emphasizes that now is not the appropriate time for institutions to consider such fee hikes, as many citizens are already facing financial hardships due to soaring prices and economic uncertainty.
While Lal acknowledges that universities routinely review their fees, he insists that they must take into account the existing struggles of the population. He points to the Tertiary Scholarship and Loans Scheme (TSLS) as a supportive measure for students; however, he notes that many might still opt for private education due to the stringent bond conditions set by the government, making an increase in fees an even heavier burden on these individuals.
Furthermore, Lal criticizes Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s declaration of 2025 as a “special year,” arguing that such proclamations ring hollow in light of the daily challenges families face, particularly when students may suffer from rising educational expenses.
Lal calls for both universities and the government to show empathy towards students by pausing any fee increases and to ensure that education remains accessible to everyone. He emphasizes the importance of genuine leadership that translates into positive action rather than just lofty rhetoric, urging that our students – as the nation’s future – deserve more support.
This discussion highlights the critical intersection of education access and economic stability, encouraging policymakers to thoughtfully consider the implications of their decisions on the vulnerable populations they serve. With a commitment to addressing these issues, there is hope that positive changes can be made to foster a more supportive environment for education in Fiji.
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