The Minister for Finance, Esrom Immanuel, is set to announce the 2026 Back-to-School Support program details today. This announcement follows the commitment made in the recently approved 2025–2026 National Budget by the former Finance Minister, Prof. Biman Prasad, affirming the continuation of the $200 Back-to-School Assistance into 2026.
This financial support will be disbursed in January 2026, precisely timed to assist families as they prepare for the upcoming school year. The initiative has been a crucial aspect of the government’s education assistance strategy, aiming to alleviate the financial stress faced by parents and guardians during this pivotal time.
With a total allocation of $40 million designated for the 2026 program, the overall government investment in the Back-to-School initiative has now exceeded $170 million since its inception. This funding is crucial for assisting approximately 200,000 students each year, falling predominantly to families with household incomes below $50,000.
The Back-to-School Support program historically has provided significant relief for essential school costs such as uniforms, shoes, school bags, and stationery. The ease of access to this support, particularly via platforms like MPAiSA and MyCASH, highlights the government’s commitment to facilitating educational readiness and easing the financial burden on families.
Overall, the early announcement of the 2026 assistance program is a hopeful sign that underscores the government’s dedication to ensuring that students are equipped with the necessary resources to thrive in their academic endeavors. With the ongoing support and collaboration between the Ministry of Finance and education stakeholders, many families can anticipate a smoother transition into the new school year.