Fiji Teachers Union Demands 35% Grant Increase Amid Rising Costs

The Fiji Teachers Union (FTU) is pressing the government for a substantial hike in the Free Education Grant, calling for a minimum 35 percent increase in the upcoming national budget. The union argues that current funding levels are no longer adequate to cover the escalating costs of running schools.

Grant rates have remained static since 2014. Primary students receive $250, Years 9 and 10 get $440, Years 11 and 12 receive $485, and Year 13 students are allocated $610. FTU General Secretary Muniappa Goundar stated that while the program initially provided sufficient support, the persistent rise in the cost of living has severely diminished the grant's value over the past decade. He estimates inflation has effectively reduced the grant's purchasing power by 30 percent.

Compounding these concerns, recent reports suggest the grant rate for primary school students has actually decreased from $250 to $173. Fijian Teachers Association General Secretary Paula Manumanunitoga echoed the call for an increase, emphasizing its necessity for schools to continue providing essential resources to students. The FTU is urging the government to prioritize this funding adjustment in the 2026-27 National Budget, asserting that additional financial support will directly benefit educational institutions.

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So, what we are demanding is a minimum of 35% increase in FEG to all our schools. Whether ECE, primary, or secondary. So that the schools can cope with the increasing expenditure in the provision of all the necessities for a child.