Parents in Fiji are urged to utilize the government’s $200 “Back to School” assistance responsibly, focusing on educational needs rather than non-educational expenses. Nirmala Nambiar, head of operations at FENC Fiji, expressed concern over reports indicating that some families are using this financial aid for food and household bills instead of their children’s schooling essentials. Nambiar highlighted that the assistance is meant to support children’s return to school, which is crucial for their development and future opportunities.
She emphasized that using these funds appropriately—such as purchasing school uniforms and supplies—can enhance a child’s confidence and foster their educational journey. Nambiar also suggested the possibility of the government providing vouchers instead of cash to ensure the assistance is directed toward necessary purchases, while raising questions about whether this approach would prevent misuse.
FENC Fiji is expanding its support for students, with plans to allocate funding specifically for uniforms and shoes in the coming years. The organization reported receiving 11,605 applications for back-to-school aid, of which 5,780 were rejected due to incomplete documentation. Nambiar highlighted the importance of proper paperwork for the approval of applications, which are assessed based on family income and living situations. With a budget of $300,000 from the government, approximately 5,825 students will receive assistance this year.
Additionally, FENC Fiji has observed a significant increase in applications from rural and maritime regions, leading to a new partnership with the Ministry of Rural Development. This collaboration aims to improve resource distribution, with newly appointed divisional coordinators working to streamline the application process for parents.
This initiative reflects a strong commitment to addressing the educational needs of families in Fiji, aiming to provide essential support that fosters a brighter future for the nation’s children. The focus on responsible use of funds showcases a proactive approach to enhancing educational outcomes and empowering families.