The Ministry of Education has reported cases of fund misappropriation in schools to the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). These cases involve schools that received funding for projects but did not provide receipts, with some projects either incomplete or not initiated.
Ilisoni Waqa, the Principal Education Officer at the Ministry of Education’s Assets and Infrastructure Services, stated that FICAC is currently conducting audits, interviews, and requesting relevant documents. The Ministry is assisting FICAC by supplying necessary evidence to aid in their investigations.
When inquired about the specific number of schools involved, Waqa noted he did not have that information available at the moment. He refrained from disclosing further details about the schools.
In a case related to Nasoki Village, assistance was requested for the completion of a double-storey classroom. Waqa confirmed that support was given, but the school did not provide the necessary receipts.
He stressed the importance of utilizing government funds responsibly and maintaining proper documentation. Waqa stated, “When funds are given to schools, we expect them to be used for their intended purpose. Schools with good records are more likely to receive funding for future projects,” encouraging schools to keep detailed records of all receipts for expenditures related to projects.