Education Minister Aseri Radrodro has emphasized the importance of using the $200 government assistance as designated for children’s back-to-school preparations. During the launch of the new Tertiary Scholarships and Loans Service (TSLS) online application system in Suva, he reiterated that this financial aid aims to support families as they gear up for the 2025 academic year.
Mr. Radrodro highlighted that the assistance is intended solely for educational purposes, urging parents and guardians to allocate the funds specifically for school necessities. He stated, “That is the whole intention, and we plead that the assistance be used for the purpose it was given for, which is to prepare the students for school.”
Finance Minister Biman Prasad echoed these sentiments, stressing the necessity of sensible usage of the funds. He pointed out that this measure aims to mitigate rising costs and financial strains many families face, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. The assistance program is structured to support households earning less than $50,000 annually, extending a crucial lifeline to approximately 200,000 students each year, with an investment of around $130 million.
Previous reports confirmed that applications for the assistance are nearing completion, indicating a strong commitment from the government to support as many eligible students as possible. Minister Prasad also noted that ensuring children return to school equipped with essentials like books, bags, and shoes is vital, especially following the holiday season.
The initiative is not just about financial aid; it plays a significant role in promoting educational readiness and supporting academic success. By investing in students’ needs at the start of the academic year, the government is fostering a hopeful environment for families, highlighting the broader commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for all children.
This proactive approach provides a solid foundation for future generations and signals the importance of educational support in building a stronger community.
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