Budget boost for Fiji’s youngest learners

Fiji is significantly boosting its investment in early childhood education, allocating $34.176 million for the sector in the upcoming 2026-2027 National Budget. The government emphasizes that strengthening early childhood education is central to building a more robust education system and providing children with the best possible start in life.

The substantial funding will be directed towards enhancing school readiness among young learners, improving the early childhood curriculum, and ensuring adequate learning resources are available across all early childhood education centers throughout the nation. Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro highlighted the importance of these formative years, stating that investing in children's early development is critical for their future success and the nation's overall prosperity.

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I am pleased to inform that a sum of $34.176 million is budgeted for early childhood in the 2026-27 budget.

Parents have expressed enthusiasm for the increased focus on early learning. Margret Manikam shared her excitement during Early Childhood Education Week, noting that the initiative provides a valuable opportunity for children and families to connect with different learning centers and celebrate the joy of learning together. The Minister also pointed to progress in the government's full-day ECE program, noting that early childhood teachers have been receiving full salary payments since August of the previous year.

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For us, it’s a first, so it’s very exciting. Even my daughter was very excited to be a part of this program. I believe it’s a very nice initiative. The whole different types of clusters coming together, the meeting, socializing, and just the kids enjoying themselves.