The Coalition Government has introduced a new Hardship Assistance Scheme aimed at supporting private students who demonstrate good academic performance.
Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro, while discussing the 2024-2025 National Budget in Parliament, announced that this initiative has already been implemented.
He mentioned that the entry requirement for the scheme will be adjusted, lowering the pass rate requirement from 65 percent to 50 percent for students pursuing degree programs from Year two onward.
The scheme will also be extended to Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) students at the diploma level.
Radrodro noted that the scheme would be available to applicants following the approval of the budget, providing immediate relief for private students.
He also highlighted a $150.5 million allocation in the Tertiary Scholarship and Loans Service, which is intended to fund 9,940 continuing students and 10,830 new students.
Radrodro emphasized the Government’s belief in the importance of community and parental or guardian involvement in education.
“This budget supports initiatives that encourage greater collaboration between schools, families, and communities, creating holistic support for our students,” he said.