SOLOMON Islands government sponsored students studying in Fiji will not receive increase of allowances that has been reported in this paper earlier this year.
A statement from Education Attache in Fiji Samantha Teitei said students will not receive an increase of their study allowance.
“According to payments received from Honiara, only first year students will receive an addition to their February payment,” Ms Teitei said.
“A onetime establishment fee of FJD$1500 with book allowance of FJD $800 and FJD$900 monthly allowance which total up to FJD$3,200 will be paid to all new intakes for 2015,” she said.
Ms Teitei said continuing students will not receive any increase to their book and monthly allowances.
Earlier this year, National Training Unit (NTU) Director Clement Tito during a meeting with students assured them they are expecting an increase in their study allowances.
Both new and continuing students are expected to receive an increase of allowances due to the assurance from NTU director.
The establishment allowance for first year students is a new payment introduced this year.
Many local students at USP Laucala campus expressed their disappointment via SISA facebook forum yesterday.
A student, who wanted to remain anonymous, commented that if there is no increase of students allowance as stated, then why did the NTU director assured students and released the statements in the media.
Another student questioned why only first year students receive an additional FJD$1500 but not continuing students.
Students received their allowances yesterday.
In an interview, SISA President Anthony Maelasi said in past years delaying of allowance is a common issue but his executive wanted to thank SIG and NTU for processing the allowances earlier.
“The establishment allowance implemented this year will help new students buy laptop and other stationary that will help them improve their academic performance,” Mr Maelasi said.
There are a total of 9 charters for Fiji students this year and 2 more charter flights are expected this week.
Formal classes have already started on February 16.
NTU director Mr Tito was contacted but he has yet to make a comment on the issue.
By Simon Abana
USP Journalism student
in Suva
