Ministry of Education Launches Micro Qualification Grants 2025–2026
FIJI NEWS
The Ministry of Education, in partnership with the Tertiary Scholarship and Loans Service (TSLS), has announced the rollout of fully funded Micro Qualification Grants for the 2025–2026 financial year.
The initiative is designed to help Fijians gain quick, practical skills that support both employment and entrepreneurship, while also opening up pathways for further study under Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) scholarships.
What is a Micro Qualification?
A Micro Qualification is a short, competency-based training program of around 150–160 hours. It focuses on urgent labour market needs and provides recognised certification upon completion. The program is open to all students, school leavers, and unemployed individuals who want to upskill or re-enter the workforce.
What the Grant Covers:
Grants valued between $500 and $600 per person, depending on the course.
Free training for successful applicants.
Nationally recognised certificates are issued upon completion.
Courses Offered:
$500 Grants
Tourism & Hospitality (Housekeeping, Restaurant Service, Front Office) – 500 places
Traditional Handicraft (Wood Carving, Tapa/Masi, Weaving) – 300 places
Performing Arts (Dance & Song) – 200 places
Women in Small Business (Bookkeeping & Marketing) – 200 places
$600 Grants
Construction (Tile Laying, Painting, Plumbing, Joinery) – 300 places
Automotive (Panel Beating, Painting) – 300 places
Community Tailoring (Sewing) – 300 places
Vocational Literacy & Numeracy (for early school leavers) – 1,000 places
Who Can Apply:
Fiji citizens (must have resided in Fiji for 3+ years).
Applicants must be 17 years and older.
Must be unemployed at the time of training.
Applications to be made through TSLS and recognised TVET providers.
Limited spaces available, offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
Required Documents:
Birth Certificate
TIN Letter
Passport Photo
Statutory Declaration
Offer Letter from TVET/TSLS training provider
Key Dates:
Applications Open: 1 – 15 September 2025
Certification: On completion of 150–160 hours of training
The Ministry says the Micro Qualification program supports the Government’s broader goals to:
Build skills for priority economic sectors.
Create employment opportunities, particularly for youth and women.
Support rural, remote, and maritime communities.
Strengthen practical, community-focused skills.
How to Apply:
Interested applicants must register through a TVET provider in their area.
Enquiries: isoa.tauribau@edu.gov.fj
Phone: 8909606
The Ministry of Education emphasised that the scheme is about “empowering Fijians with skills for life and work.”