Students want more funding, lower tertiary costs in National Budget

Students at Fiji National University (FNU) are calling on Government to strengthen education funding, expand financial assistance and ease the rising cost of tertiary studies ahead of the 2026-2027 National Budget.

Second-year Bachelor of Education (Secondary) students say current support measures are not enough, with many continuing to struggle with tuition fees, transport costs and other study-related expenses.

Student Isimeli Kuruduadua Kautoga, 21, of Waiyavi, Lautoka, is urging Government to maintain and expand the $200 student assistance grant, saying it helps low-income families earning less than $50,000 a year meet the cost of uniforms, school bags and stationery.

He is also calling for expanded transport subsidies for tertiary students, noting that university and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) students often pay full adult fares or rely on limited concessions.

Mr Kautoga also raised concerns about recent scholarship funding changes, saying baseline funding for institutions such as FNU should be strengthened to ensure equitable access to higher education.

Another student, Irene Ram of Natabua, Lautoka, echoed similar concerns and called for increased Government investment in scholarships, student allowances and reduced tuition fees.

“The biggest challenges include tuition fees, textbooks, transport and daily living costs such as food and rent,” Ms Ram said.

“Sometimes balancing studies with part-time work becomes very difficult because of financial pressure.”

Ms Ram said Government support was helping students, but more assistance was needed to address rising education costs.

“I think the Government is providing some support, but it is not enough. Many students still struggle with fees and living costs. More financial assistance and easier access to scholarships are needed,” she said.

As the 2026-2027 National Budget approaches, tertiary students continue to call for targeted measures to make higher education more affordable and accessible.