FNPF reviews tertiary assistance criteria

The Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF) has reviewed the criteria for private tertiary institutes that qualify for funding under its education withdrawal assistance.

Private tertiary and vocational institutes are now required to meet the Fund's requirements and satisfactory assessment.

FNPF will only accept requests from the Fiji National University (FNU), which includes what was previously known as FIT, FSM, FSN, Lautoka Teachers Collage and Fiji Collage of Advance Education together with USP, University of Fiji and TPAF.

Acting Chief Executive Officer Joji Koroi said the review was undertaken after a range of complaints were received from members against some institutions.

Koroi confirmed some have enrolled bogus students and fees have been paid out from the FNPF and then the funds shared by the member and those running the institution.

According to Koroi some of these cases are now being investigated.

He added while the change in their policy may be unfortunate, the Fund needs to be sure those members funds are used prudently in line with their obligation.