Parents in Fiji are being encouraged to utilize the Government’s $200 “Back to School” assistance appropriately and avoid misusing the funds for non-educational expenses. Nirmala Nambiar, head of operations at FENC Fiji, expressed concern over reports that some parents are spending this financial support on food and household bills instead of their children’s educational needs. She emphasized that the assistance is specifically intended to benefit children as they return to school, which plays a vital role in their development and future prospects.
Nambiar reiterated the importance of directing this financial aid toward necessities such as school uniforms and supplies, noting that using the funds correctly can boost a child’s confidence and support their educational journey. She also commented on the potential for the government to issue vouchers instead of cash, suggesting that vouchers could lead to necessary purchases, yet questioned whether they would prevent parents from diverting resources for home use.
In addition, FENC Fiji announced plans to broaden its support for students in the coming years, aiming to provide funding specifically for uniforms and shoes.
In terms of assistance applications, FENC Fiji reported receiving 11,605 applications for back-to-school aid, out of which 5,780 were rejected due to missing documents or incomplete forms. Nambiar explained that proper documentation is crucial for approval, as applications are evaluated based on family income and living situations. With $300,000 allocated from the government, about 5,825 students will still receive assistance this year.
The organization has noted a significant rise in applications from rural and maritime areas, prompting a partnership with the Ministry of Rural Development for better distribution of resources. New divisional coordinators will now assist in connecting with communities, making the application process smoother for parents.
This initiative reflects a strong commitment to addressing educational needs and providing essential support to families, fostering a brighter future for Fiji’s children.