The iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting iTaukei students, revealing that 2,356 students have already received assistance at the start of this year through the Early Withdrawal Minors Education Assistance programme.
Minister for iTaukei Affairs and Chairman of the TLTB Board of Trustees, Ifereimi Vasu, said the initiative has provided critical support to students at a time when families need it most.
He confirmed that a total of 10,025 students have benefited from the scheme across the 2024, 2025 and 2026 academic years.
The programme, introduced in 2024, allows for the early withdrawal of a portion of minors’ lease funds to meet immediate education needs, particularly at the primary and secondary school levels. The remaining balance is invested until the child reaches the age of 18.
Vasu said the scheme was introduced after recognising that many families struggled to access funds when education expenses were due, often placing children at risk of dropping out.
“This initiative was introduced to ensure that support is provided at the time our children actually need it,” he said.
He said the Early Withdrawal Minors Education Assistance has proven effective in complementing government education programmes and easing financial pressure on iTaukei families.
“It ensures that lease funds are used meaningfully to meet essential, immediate educational needs, helps to avoid school dropouts, and demonstrates the Board’s commitment to supporting the education of our children,” Hon. Vasu said.
He added that education remains a cornerstone of Fiji’s long-term socio-economic development, and that the Board remains committed to ensuring iTaukei children are given every opportunity to succeed.
