Over 100 schools and early childhood centers are facing delays in receiving their grants for Terms 1 and 2 due to various financial compliance and administration issues. Education Minister Aseri Radrodro announced that while many institutions received their payments last month, some schools have yet to qualify for their funding, having not met specific requirements established by the Ministry of Education.
Of the institutions affected, 85 early childhood centers are experiencing hold-ups primarily due to late financial reporting, missing registration details, and incomplete bank information required for the new financial system. Additionally, 22 primary schools are waiting for grants because of unresolved audit updates and the untimely submission of Annual General Meeting (AGM) minutes and financial reports. Two secondary schools remain unpaid, as they have not provided critical bank reconciliation statements and AGM reports.
Minister Radrodro reassured that the Ministry is diligently working with leadership from the affected schools to resolve these compliance issues quickly and facilitate a prompt release of funds. He reiterated the government’s commitment to improving educational resources and accessibility, emphasizing that free education extends beyond just tuition—it includes equipping students with the necessary tools for academic achievement.
This situation arises amidst a broader conversation regarding accountability in educational funding, underscoring the ongoing need for effective financial management in schools. The government’s commitment to addressing outstanding compliance issues reflects a positive initiative towards strengthening educational support for Fiji’s children. The collaborative efforts between the Ministry and educational institutions aim not only to resolve the current delays but also to lay a solid foundation for the future of education in Fiji, ensuring that every school receives the necessary funding to provide high-quality education.