Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, has announced that the Back-to-School Support payments for the 2025 academic year were successfully processed and distributed ahead of schedule, allowing families two and a half weeks to prepare their children for school. This initiative was initially set to begin on January 15 but was expedited to better assist families in preparing for the new school year starting January 27, 2025.

In total, 208,673 applications were submitted under this program, with 200,176 being processed and a substantial payout of $40.4 million disbursed. The remaining 8,313 applications are currently on hold, awaiting Year-12 exam results before the students can officially enroll in Year 13.

Parents and guardians can access the $200 support per child through mobile platforms such as MPAiSA and MyCASH, as well as at Post Fiji outlets. These funds are available for withdrawal or can be used virtually for purchasing essential school items like uniforms, shoes, school bags, and stationery. For families in maritime areas, funds can be collected at the nearest Post Fiji agency by presenting a child’s student ID as proof.

This support program is part of the Coalition Government’s broader initiative to alleviate the financial burden associated with essential school-related expenses, particularly for families with household incomes below $50,000. Historically, the Back-to-School Support initiative has benefited approximately 200,000 students each year, with the government investing around $130 million in educational assistance annually.

This timely support not only provides significant financial relief but also emphasizes the government’s commitment to fostering educational readiness. It serves as a hopeful sign for families navigating the expenses associated with the back-to-school season, ensuring that children have the necessary resources as they embark on a new academic year filled with promise and opportunities.

Furthermore, the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Education express their gratitude to all school heads, teachers, administrators, and families for their dedication and support throughout the application process. This collaboration plays a crucial role in reinforcing the community’s commitment to education.