Pacific Polytechnic has emerged as one of the biggest losers in the 2026–2027 National Budget, with its government grant slashed by more than 92 percent.
Budget Estimates tabled in Parliament show the institution will receive $500,000 in the new financial year, a sharp drop from the $7 million allocated in the 2025–2026 Budget — a reduction of $6.5 million.
The cut stands out among government funding for tertiary institutions, with several other universities receiving either increased or relatively stable allocations.
The University of the South Pacific will receive $27.06 million, down from $31.49 million, while the University of Fiji’s grant increases from $3.72 million to $6.69 million. The Fiji National University also records a modest increase, rising to $36.92 million.
The Budget Estimates do not provide a specific explanation for the substantial reduction in Pacific Polytechnic’s allocation.
In March this year, Pacific Polytech Ltd was able to benefit from a $7 million government grant aimed at strengthening skills training and expanding technical education opportunities in Fiji.
The $7 million grant was approved in the 2025–2026 National Budget to support Pacific Polytech’s training programmes and improve facilities for students pursuing technical and vocational education.
The funding was put on hold pending legal advice that was being sought by FHEC on the registration of the institution.
