Students living in rural and interior areas inconvenienced by 6.30am start of e-transport subsidy card

The Fiji Bus Operators Association says it has held discussions with the Education Ministry to open up the subsidised e-transport cards for students from about 6am as it is currently inconveniencing students catching the buses from the interior areas at about 6am to go to school.

Nisar Ali Shah says this is important for students living in the rural and interior areas.

Shah says they are waiting for the Education Ministry’s direction as students from some areas in Sawani/Serea, Navau, Nadarivatu, Sabeto and interior of Vatukoula need this implemented.

The e-transport student subsidy cards can only be used from 6.30am to 9am and 2.30pm to 5pm on school days. The cards are locked and cannot be used at other times.

Although students may have extra classes or sports training, Shah says according to the Ministry all school activities should be finished before 5pm.

Minister for Education, Rosy Akbar is yet to comment.