The $200 Back to School Support program is set to continue, with Finance Minister Esrom Immanuel recently announcing the allocation of $40 million for the upcoming academic year. Launched three years ago, this initiative aims to ease the financial burden on families and ensure that children are well-equipped for the start of the school year.
Over the past three years, the Fijian Government has invested a total of $180 million into this program. In 2023 alone, it successfully assisted more than 223,000 students, amounting to $44.7 million in support. In 2024, approximately 212,000 students received $42.5 million, and the following year, the initiative benefited 213,000 students with $42.7 million in assistance.
Eligible families, particularly those with a combined income under $50,000, can apply for this support to cover essential school-related expenses such as uniforms, shoes, school bags, and stationery. Education Minister Aseri Radrodro highlighted that the application process has been simplified, allowing families to apply comfortably while ensuring greater privacy regarding personal information.
Applications for financial assistance will be available at schools and can also be downloaded from the websites of the Education and Finance Ministries. For families in maritime areas, funds can conveniently be collected through Telegraphic Money Order (TMO) at Post Offices, with the government covering all service fees to ensure that families receive the full $200 assistance.
As the new academic year approaches, this program not only represents financial relief for families but also underscores the government’s commitment to improving educational access. It ensures that students have the necessary resources for a successful year, reinforcing the notion that education is a vital priority and a gateway to a brighter future for children throughout Fiji.