A key measure of the Coalition Government's efforts to narrow the gap between education and employment is to provide $150 million in funding to the Tertiary Scholarship and Loan Scheme (TSLS).
This was highlighted by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Hon. Professor Biman Prasad at the Waidina College Golden Jubilee celebrations last week.
DPM Prasad shared that by partnering with key education stakeholders, the Coalition Government has been able to offer scholarships for 300 students to undertake industry-based training and obtain a Certificate or Diploma with employers such as Energy Fiji Limited or Telecom.
"It will certainly expand the horizons of some 300 students, who will be able to work for the employers that trained them after completing their program."
He said the government has also introduced the Hardship Assistance Scheme to support private students who perform well academically but, through no fault of their own, experience financial hardship.
“Through this scheme, students studying at all levels, from diplomas to degrees, will be assisted.”
He explained that the coalition government's Back-to-School Support Payment of $200 per student (from parents with incomes below $50,000) is part of its commitment to supporting education and ensuring our children have all the support they need.
“These new schemes reflect more than just an investment in education. This demonstrates our government's commitment to empower our people with an education as well as skills and opportunities for employment, which are also part of the new National Development Plan 2025-2029 and Vision 2050."