Education Minister Aseri Radrodro has issued a strong warning to authorised witnesses after reports emerged that some individuals were charging parents and guardians to sign forms for the Government’s $200 Back to School Support for 2026.
Radrodro clarified that Heads of Schools, Government officials, Justices of the Peace, and lawyers are permitted to witness the forms — but must not charge any fees.
“It has been brought to my attention that some of those authorised to witness the forms are charging parents and guardians when doing so,” he said.
“It is not allowed to charge anyone for signing those forms.”
He stressed that the initiative is designed to assist families who genuinely need support preparing their children for the new school year, and any exploitation of parents will not be tolerated.
“We expect everyone to assist in making these processes as smooth as possible,” Radrodro said.
He urged schools to allocate specific officers to help parents who may need assistance filling out the forms.
“We must not have parents running from school to Education officers without assistance, and this will be looked into closely from my office,” he added.
