The Fiji Education Ministry has taken a firm stance by withholding or delaying free education grants to 52 schools, affecting over 22,000 students due to non-compliance with financial requirements. This issue was highlighted by the Finance Director of the Education Ministry, Thomas Prasad, during the Fiji Principals Association conference in Nadi. Prasad underscored the critical need for school leaders to acquire skills necessary for effective financial management to comply with the ministry’s guidelines.
For the 2025-2026 financial year, the ministry has earmarked a $675 million budget, including $40 million aimed specifically at the back-to-school assistance program. This delineates a clear focus on ensuring that educational funds are allocated appropriately to bolster learning resources, essential for enhancing student outcomes.
Non-compliant schools span several regions, including Cakaudrove, Eastern, Lautoka, Yasawa, Macuata, Bua, Nadroga, Navosa, Nausori, Ra, with Suva having the highest number of affected schools. Prasad urged school administrators to prioritize financial compliance to adhere to the Free Education Grant (FEG) guidelines.
Financial auditing problems are not new to Fiji’s educational landscape. Previous reports have shed light on financial mismanagement, missing funds, and inadequate financial records. The ministry plans to counter these issues by bolstering financial governance through targeted training and stricter oversight for school administrators.
This development is set against a larger framework of scrutiny and reform within Fiji’s education sector. These efforts are aimed at ensuring educational grants are managed effectively and transparently, ultimately leading to improved educational opportunities and outcomes for students.
As the ministry focuses on elevating the financial integrity of the education system, there is optimism that schools will enhance their compliance measures. Such progress could ensure that resources are efficiently used to achieve educational goals, thereby fostering a more favorable learning environment for Fiji’s students.