$180m disbursed in Back-to-School support since 2023

The Government has disbursed a total of $180 million in Back-to-School support over the past three years, assisting more than 648,000 students since the programme's introduction in 2023.

Minister for Finance Esrom Immanuel revealed the figures while announcing the 2026 Back-to-School programme, which opens for applications today.

“In 2023, we successfully provided the support to over 223,000 students with a total payment of $44.7 million to support Fijian students and their families,” Mr Immanuel said.

“In 2024, we assisted over 212,000, dispersing a total of $42.5 million. In 2025, we assisted around over 213,000 students with a total disbursement of $42.7 million.”

The Minister said the programme was one of the key initiatives of the Coalition Government when it came into power three years ago.

“Each year, this programme reminds us of what truly matters, giving every child in Fiji the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive, regardless of their family's financial circumstances,” he said.

For the 2026 school year, $40 million has been allocated in the 2025-2026 budget for the initiative.

The $200 per child support is designed to help parents and guardians meet the cost of school uniforms, bags, shoes, lunch boxes, stationery and other essential items children need to be well prepared for the academic year.

Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro said the assistance had contributed to increased school attendance and examination numbers.

“The numbers have increased as compared to the previous years. So that's an indication that the assistance is somewhat effectively contributing to the high attendance,” Mr Radrodro said.

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