Parents and guardians who have yet to receive the $200 back-to-school assistance are being urged to address any discrepancies in their application forms before funds can be disbursed. Finance Minister Esrom Immanuel emphasized the importance of providing accurate details, stating that payments will only be processed after a thorough verification of the information submitted.
In a statement made in Nadi, Mr. Immanuel mentioned that a dedicated team has been established at the Ministry of Education, where a booth has been set up to assist parents with inquiries regarding the cash assistance program. “We are here to help clarify and resolve any issues,” he noted, acknowledging the presence of discrepancies in some applications.
Once these discrepancies are rectified, the Ministry of Education will compile a verified list and forward it to the Ministry of Finance for the release of funds. Mr. Immanuel pointed out that many problems stem from how the application forms were completed, including outdated or incorrect telephone numbers. He also highlighted the shared responsibility between parents and teachers to ensure the accuracy of details in the applications.
This initiative aims to ensure that every eligible family receives the financial support intended for them, reflecting the government’s commitment to assist families during the back-to-school season. With the assistance of both the Ministry of Education and the efforts of parents, it is hoped that the verification process will lead to a smooth distribution of funds to support students as they return to school.