More than 204,872 applications were received for the Government’s $200 Back-to-School Assistance for the 2026 school year, as payments began rolling out from Friday afternoon and will continue through the weekend.
The Ministry of Finance confirmed that following a comprehensive vetting and verification process, eligible parents and guardians will start receiving the assistance from today.
In the first batch alone, around 185,000 students will benefit, with a total payout of approximately $37 million.
The Ministry said students progressing from Year 12 to Year 13 will receive their payments once their enrolment for the 2026 academic year is confirmed.
In addition, about 10,000 applications remain under verification due to incomplete or incorrect information.
The Ministry of Education, together with schools, will work closely with parents and guardians to resolve outstanding issues to ensure every eligible child receives the $200 assistance.
Parents and guardians who do not receive payment by Monday next week are encouraged to seek assistance through Ministry of Education District Offices or the Help Desk at Waisomo House.
They may also contact the following helpdesk numbers: 3220551, 3314477, 9980079 or 9986069.
The Ministry of Finance has urged parents and guardians to use the assistance wisely to meet their children’s education needs, while warning that Government agencies will monitor businesses to prevent price gouging or other unfair practices.
