Thumbs Up For TELS, NTS Provisions
Increase of scholarships under the Tertiary Loan Scheme (TELS) and National Toppers Scheme (NTS) has been praised by many students, following the Government’s announcement in the 2022-2023 National Budget.
Government has reinstated the National Toppers Overseas Scheme, which was suspended due to border closures.
First of its kind, introduction of 10 PhD and 20 Masters-by-research scholarships for full-time studies.
Also, the number of National Topper Scheme (NTS) awards will see an increase of 547 to 770 under the new budget, allowing more students to apply under this new provision.
The Ministry of Education, Heritage and Arts received $489.8 million in its budget allocation, of which $48.9m was for higher education institutions while $162.6m is for various scholarships, loan services and grants.
TELS beneficiary, Adi Ateca Waqanivavalagi, currently pursuing Bachelor of Arts in Commerce, said the scheme had helped her since 2019.
“It’s easier for us students, especially for our families, considering that the financial burden of higher education is being looked after,” Ms Waqanivavalagi said.
“I managed to study at USP through the support of TELS.”
She is grateful that TELS was always timely with the distribution of allowances to students.
Echoing similar sentiments was Naisaani Apisai, 22, who is studying at the Sangam College of Nursing under TELS.
“To think about it, this is a good initiative for the students because nowadays life is very difficult. A good example is the cost of living, therefore increasing TELS provision will help and cater the students to study well, especially for Maritime students like me,” Mr Apisai said.
The cut-off mark for TELS for Higher Education/Level 7 programmes will remain at 250.
Kelera Saukilagi, who is currently pursuing Bachelor of Commerce in Professional Accounting under NTS, credits her tertiary journey to the Government.
“It’s great that the government has increased the provisions on NTS as this allows more students to further their education without the burden of paying off student loans,” Ms Saukilagi said.
“I wouldn’t say it benefits me personally as I am already an existing NTS student but this definitely will benefit high school students who wish to further their education through scholarships.”
“Great progress for Ministry of Education because students have a higher chance of getting a scholarship,” she said.
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