More Than 6,000 Students Receive Back-To-School Assistance from Narere Youth Foundation

More than 6,000 students yesterday received the much-needed free exercise books back-to-school assistance through an education support initiative by the Narere Youth Foundation (NYF).

The President of the Foundation, Mr Dinesh Kumar while speaking highlighted that this initiative aimed at reducing the financial burden on families and ensuring children are ready for the new school year.

The Foundation emphasized that the initiative is independently run and free from political party influence, managed by dedicated committee. The President has also announced future plans to expand its support to include school uniforms and additional assistance for families most in need.

The Government has welcomed and commended the education support initiative led by the Foundation, which has significantly contributed to ensuring children are fully prepared for the new school year.

Speaking at the event, the Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, Honourable Agni Deo Singh reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to education, noting that free education is provided from kindergarten to Year 13, with the Government covering school fees, transport fares, and textbooks, along with an annual $200 assistance per child for stationery and school uniforms.

“This initiative by the Narere Youth Federation complements the Government’s commitment to education,” said Minister Singh.

“By providing free exercise books to over 6,000 students, they are helping families and ensuring that no child is left unprepared for the new school year.”

The Minister emphasized that while the Government continues to remove financial barriers to education, parents also have an important responsibility in raising disciplined and motivated children. This includes instilling good values at home, spending quality time with their children, and ensuring they study and complete their homework.

The Minister also acknowledged the role of community organizations, trustees, and volunteers, praising their dedication in supporting vulnerable families, including initiatives such as providing lunches to the poorest of the poor.

Highlighting children’s wellbeing, Minister Singh encouraged families to prioritize healthy eating, urging parents to provide nutritious meals rather than relying on instant foods. Backyard gardening was promoted as a practical way to grow fresh vegetables, even in small spaces.

The Employment Minister further raised concerns about the drug problem, noting that it is affecting even primary school-aged children. Parents were urged to supervise their children closely, ensure they associate with the right peers, and remain actively involved in their daily lives.

Parents were also reminded that students must maintain at least 80 percent school attendance and achieve passing grades to progress academically, with parental support playing a key role in reinforcing study habits and homework completion.

Minister Singh concluded by stressing that education success is a shared responsibility, and partnerships such as the initiative led by the Narere Youth Foundation demonstrated how communities and government can work together to secure a better future for our children.