Fiji’s Education Minister Rosy Akbar says of the $704.6million allocated to the education sector in the 2021-2022 budget, $442.9m was for the ministry’s operational needs, $71.4m was for operation grants to higher education including the three universities and seven TVET institutions.
During debate on the 2021-2022 Appropriation Bill in Parliament on Monday, she said $159.6m has been allocated for TELS and National Toppers Scheme in the coming financial year.
Ms Akbar said Government recognised the opportunities for tertiary education through TELS and National Toppers Scheme and so far 43,604 students had benefited from TELS.
“Due to the current conditions, some changes have been made to TELS to ensure that those who truly need assistance are prioritised,” she said.
“TELS will now be provided to students from families who have a household income of less than $100,000.
“We are increasing the number of TELS for TVET program at FNU to 5000 students in the next academic year.
“These students will not be able to make the cut-off mark for TELS are offered degree programs or have an interest in TVET education will be able to join this scheme including our Year 12 students.
“All MBBS students that privately joined in 2021 with a minimum Year 13 marks of 340 and first year GPA of 3.0 and family income below $100,000 will be eligible for a one-off payment of $10,000 by this Government grant towards their MBBS education.”
