With the government's $200 Back-to-School assistance payment coming out this Friday, parents have been urged to use the assistance strictly for their children’s education, as concerns continue to be raised about how the funds are spent.
Speaking during a press conference at the Foundation for the Education of Needy Children (FENC Fiji) office, National Executive Coordinator Nirmala Nambiar defended the timing and purpose of the Government assistance, saying it plays a crucial role in helping families meet immediate needs ahead of the school year.
She says while there is public perception that the money is misused, the deeper issue is the ongoing financial hardship faced by many households.
She explained that FENC Fiji also provides assistance to vulnerable children in the form of vouchers, supporting thousands of families each year, but noted that even with vouchers it remains difficult to closely monitor exactly what items are purchased.
Nambiar says releasing the Government’s $200 assistance shortly before the start of the school year helps ensure it is used for its intended purpose, while also reducing the risks associated with cash disbursement.
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She confirmed that 5,780 vulnerable children across Fiji will receive education assistance in 2026 following the organisation’s nationwide assessment under the Child Education Support Scheme.
