A total of 781 students have successfully benefited from the Hardship Assistance Scheme introduced in the 2023-2024 budget, aimed at providing financial support to private students demonstrating good academic performance during tough financial times. The Education Minister, Aseri Radrodro, reported to Parliament that 329 of these students joined the program in 2024, while 452 started in 2025.
Initially, students who wished to access this assistance needed to have completed their first year of studies with a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 65%. However, with the new budget for 2024-2025, this requirement has been adjusted, allowing students with a pass rate of 50% to qualify for the scheme. This change aims to expand the reach of the program to a greater number of students facing financial hardships.
Radrodro also announced that the Tertiary Scholarships and Loans Service (TSLS) would soon open applications for the second semester intake of eligible students who have completed their first year with the new pass rate criteria. As of now, the government has allocated $5.9 million for the Hardship Assistance Scheme, with $3.4 million already utilized to support students.
This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to education and providing relief to students who might otherwise struggle to continue their studies. It is noteworthy that this scheme not only aids those in private education but also extends support to vocational students, fostering a broader educational collaboration aimed at enhancing overall student success.
The Hardship Assistance Scheme is a proactive step toward building a supportive educational environment that not only facilitates students’ academic growth but also emphasizes community and parental involvement in the learning process. Such programs are vital in ensuring that all students have access to quality education, regardless of their financial status, heralding a brighter future for the next generation.
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