Parents and guardians looking for the Government’s $200 back-to-school assistance will benefit from a new change that facilitates the verification of their application forms. Education Minister Aseri Radrodro has announced that heads of schools are now authorized to sign these forms, in addition to Justices of the Peace, making the process significantly more accessible for families.
While addressing parents in iTaukei, Radrodro expressed that this adjustment aims to provide greater convenience for those navigating the application process. “I reassure parents who are looking for Justices of the Peace to sign the back-to-school forms that, as announced, heads of schools can also sign these forms,” he stated.
The newly empowered school heads will be responsible for verifying the accuracy of the information submitted by parents and guardians. This change is expected to alleviate the difficulties many families in rural and maritime areas face due to the often limited access to Justices of the Peace.
Applications for the 2026 back-to-school assistance were opened on November 11 and will remain open until December 12, allowing ample time for families to complete their applications.
This move comes amid ongoing discussions surrounding the $200 Back-to-School Support, which has faced issues in the past due to incorrect information provided in applications. Radrodro has highlighted that inaccuracies like incorrect identification numbers and details have caused delays, thus impacting families’ ability to purchase essential school supplies. By streamlining the verification process through school heads, the Ministry hopes to enhance the application experience and ensure that families receive timely support.
The government’s commitment to supporting educational expenses remains evident, with a reported investment of around $130 million annually aiding over 200,000 students. This initiative emphasizes the importance of educational accessibility, especially for families with lower incomes. In light of recent payment delays due to submitted inaccuracies, the Ministry’s proactive measures signify hope for a smoother path forward for families as they prepare for their children’s educational journeys.
As the school year approaches, this development is seen as a positive step towards fostering better educational readiness and ensuring that students have the supplies they need to succeed. The government’s commitment to simplifying processes and supporting families highlights a collective effort to strengthen the education system and build a brighter future for all students.