Parents and guardians gathered at the Ministry of Education office yesterday, seeking clarity regarding the delayed $200 education assistance payments. Many were inquiring about overdue payments, while others came prepared with documents to reapply after their initial submissions did not reach the ministry.
Susana Vakaliyara, who traveled from Namosi, expressed the urgency of her situation, stating that the assistance was essential for purchasing final stationery supplies for her two children. “I didn’t receive the $200 even though I filled in the form, and that is why I have come back to refill my form and get the assistance,” she said.
In Suva, grandmother Marama Kidia, who came from Naitasiri, added to the long line of applicants, eager to submit an application on behalf of her grandson. “I couldn’t apply earlier because my grandson gave me the forms during the holidays, but due to unforeseen circumstances, I couldn’t submit them on time,” she explained.
Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro reported that the ministry had already assisted over 3,000 parents and guardians at the office. He noted that common issues contributing to the delays included applications not submitted by schools by the deadline, late submissions from parents and guardians, incorrect contact numbers, and instances of inaccurate applications submitted on behalf of students.
“All these cases were attended to and verified,” Mr. Radrodro confirmed, emphasizing the ministry’s commitment to addressing these concerns. He also mentioned that assistance operations at Waisomo House would continue until the commencement of the school year, offering reassurance amid the anxiety surrounding the application process.
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