Ministry of Education Warns Schools in Solomon Islands Against Unapproved Fees Ahead of 2026 Academic Year

The Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD) of Solomon Islands has issued a strong warning to schools against charging unapproved or excessive fees as the 2026 academic year approaches.

While confirming that classes will officially begin on Monday, 26 January 2026, the ministry reminded education providers and school principals that only fees approved by the Minister for Education are permitted.

In a statement, the ministry said all schools are required to commence classes strictly on the date specified.

“Any school principal who intends to commence their schools’ academic year later than the approved date must provide a valid justification in writing to the Permanent Secretary, through their Education Provider, seeking approval prior to any delayed start.

“Failure to comply with this directive will be regarded as non-compliance with MEHRD instructions and will be dealt with accordingly,” the statement said.

All teachers are expected to report to their respective schools at least one week prior to the commencement of classes to support preparation and planning activities. Principals are required to record teacher attendance and report any absences to their respective Education Providers, the ministry added.

“Any teacher who fails to report to their school for two consecutive weeks must be formally reported to the MEHRD Teaching Service Division for appropriate action.”

School Fees

All Education Providers and School Principals are reminded that only school fees approved and determined by the Minister for Education and Human Resources Development should be charged.

“Charging fees above the approved limits constitutes a breach of the Ministerial Order implemented by MEHRD,” the ministry said.

The maximum amount of school fees that may be charged for school for a year is as follows:

Any school wishing to charge fees above the approved maximum must seek prior written approval from the Minister, supported by an evidence-based justification. This justification must include:

1. The school’s projected expenditure for the 2026 financial year;
2. Key operational and development costs;
3. Revenue sources, including:

   a) School grants
   b) Expected fee collections based on student enrolment, and
   c) Any other sources of income

Prohibited Fees

In accordance with the existing Administrative Instruction issued by the Permanent Secretary, schools are not authorised to charge the following fees:

1. National examination fees for students in Year 9, Year 11, and Year 12;
2. Registration or administration fees; and
3. Transfer fees for students approved to transfer from one school to another.

Schools intending to introduce or charge any additional type of fee must first consult and obtain advice from the Permanent Secretary and final approval from the Minister of Education and Human Resources Development.

MEHRD expects full compliance with these directives to ensure equity, transparency, and orderly commencement of the academic year across all schools.