The Minister for Education, Honourable Aseri Radrodro, delivered the closing remarks at the Education Finance and Policy Training, now in its second phase, which was organised by the Ministry of Education in partnership with the World Bank. The program aimed to strengthen how schools manage their funding and how education policies are developed and implemented in Fiji.
Building on lessons from the first Academy held in March, this phase provided school leaders and education officials with both practical tools and theoretical knowledge on improving public financial management in schools. Key topics included aligning school budgets with strategic plans, improving budget submissions, strengthening financial reporting and internal controls, and understanding the role of technology such as artificial intelligence in education financing.
The training also created an important platform for open dialogue between schools, the Ministry of Education, and the Ministry of Finance. This two-way exchange helped all parties better understand real challenges on the ground and supported efforts to build a more transparent, fair, and responsive education financing system.
Honourable Radrodro acknowledged the progress made since the first Academy and thanked the World Bank for its continued support. Special appreciation was extended to World Bank Regional Practice Director Mr. Alberto Rodriguez, who travelled from Washington to attend the event, and to Mr. Shawn Powers for his consistent support throughout the program.
The Honourable Minister also acknowledged the expert facilitators, Professor Satish Chand, Dr. Glenn Finau, Dr. Charmaine Kwan, Mr. Vilisoni Inia, and Mr. Paula Tuilagivou for their valuable guidance and contributions.
This successful second phase leaves school leaders and education officials better equipped, more connected, and more committed to delivering improved financial practices across Fiji’s education system.
