Ritesh Sharma, a member of the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence, has emphasized the vital need to increase awareness among tertiary students regarding their obligations under the Tertiary Education Loan Scheme (TELS). This call to action comes amid recent confusion over travel clearance procedures. During a recent committee meeting with representatives of the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS), Sharma highlighted the fact that many students remain unaware of their responsibilities, particularly the necessity of securing travel approval before leaving Fiji.
Sharma expressed his concern about the lack of clarity surrounding these requirements, attributing the confusion to recent shifts in government and policy that have left students uncertain. This lack of understanding has reportedly resulted in some students missing flights due to ignorance about the necessary processes. He raised specific instances where students were stranded at airports, having failed to consult with immigration, FRCS, or TELS for the required travel clearance.
In response to these concerns, FRCS Chief Executive Udit Singh provided clarity on the situation, revealing that the management of TELS’ financial loan aspects has returned entirely to the Tertiary Scholarships and Loans Service (TSLS). This shift aims to ease the complications that arose from the previous dual management system involving both FRCS and TSLS, which frequently resulted in confusion and delays for students.
Momina Beg, the Director of Taxation, elaborated further by explaining that the travel clearance process has been streamlined significantly. Students now have the option to complete the clearance process online via a kiosk, a change designed to enhance their experience. Beg noted that with this new system, students will have access to a one-stop service for both bond and travel clearance, greatly improving efficiency and comprehension of their obligations.
As these developments unfold, committee members are stressing the necessity for clearer communication to ensure that students understand their bond agreements, which legally bind them from traveling without prior approval. This renewed emphasis on awareness and procedural enhancement showcases a positive commitment from educational authorities to support students better. With initiatives such as the online clearance system and the introduction of kiosks, there appears to be a promising trajectory toward fostering a more informed and well-prepared student population, indicating a brighter future for student interactions with government services.