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 announced in Parliament, while discussing the 2024-2025 National Budget, that this initiative has already commenced.
He stated that the entry requirement for this scheme will be adjusted from a 65 percent to a 50 percent pass rate for students pursuing degree programs starting from their second year.
This assistance will also be made available to TVET students at the diploma level.
Radrodro mentioned that this scheme will be open to applicants following the budget’s approval to provide immediate relief to private students.
Additionally, Radrodro highlighted a budget allocation of $150.5 million to the Tertiary Scholarship and Loans Service, which will support 9,940 continuing students and 10,830 new students.
He 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.