Financing for equity in primary and secondary education
1. Education resources to subnational governments
2. Education resources to schools
3. Education resources to students and families
4. Social policies and family support programmes
Introduction
In Kiribati, education financing is centrally managed by the Ministry of Education (MoE). The central government allocates funding to all public schools, distributing both domestic and donor resources nationwide, including to remote islands. Local authorities and schools receive funds through MoE-established mechanisms but do not have independent revenue or budgeting authority.
1. Education resources to subnational governments
There is no formal fiscal decentralisation to subnational governments; the Ministry of Education (MoE) manages direct transfers and programme-based funding for infrastructure, teacher salaries, equipment, and targeted initiatives.
2. Education resources to schools
The Ministry of Education (MoE) allocates resources to schools based primarily on the school-age population using a per-student unit cost approach. Funding reflects student enrolment at each level, with additional consideration for geographic location and poverty, addressing the challenges of a dispersed island nation. The MoE also provides targeted funding directly to schools, including support for Secondary Mission Schools, financial assistance for school fees, provision for Schools for Special Needs Children, and contributions to the Development Fund.
Australian Support for Kiribati Education
From 2011 to 2023, Australia contributed over A$97 million to the Kiribati education sector through the Kiribati Education Improvement Plan (KEIP). The funding supported school infrastructure, curriculum development, teacher training, inclusivity, and education system management, aligning with Kiribati’s 2020–2023 Education Sector Strategic Plan (ESSP).
Infrastructure achievements under KEIP include the upgrading of 28 primary schools, construction of 256 new classrooms, and the upgrading of 105 existing classrooms. Water and sanitation improvements comprised 198 new water tanks and 172 new toilets. Over 30,000 pieces of classroom furniture were delivered. At the Kiribati Teachers’ College (KTC), two double-storey learning centres were built, and a new two-level Examination and Assessment Unit (EAU) was constructed at Bikenibeu.
System Transformation Grant (STG) 2024–2028
The Ministry of Education (MoE), in partnership with the Global Partnership for Education (GPE), leads the 2024–2028 System Transformation Grant (STG). Its initial focus is the development of model schools to serve as pilot sites for ICT infrastructure and teaching innovations, supporting evidence-based learning and systematic improvement. ICT integration aims to enhance student learning through digital resources, including inclusive lesson plans, interactive diagrams, and assessment tools.
The budget is divided into five components. ICT Infrastructure covers solar power, internet, and devices for school leaders and classrooms. Teacher Training and Standards updates ICT competency standards, develops digital citizenship and ICT curricula, and trains teachers in ICT-enhanced pedagogy. Strengthening the Kiribati Education Management Information System (KEMIS) upgrades the system to monitor ICT resources and training, supports evidence-based decision-making, and integrates gender and disability data. Programme Implementation funds coordination, travel, administration, meetings, and monitoring. Grant Agent Implementation Costs cover technical support, administration, and travel for grant activities.
3. Education resources to students and families
There are no formal scholarship programmes for primary or junior secondary students, as education is universally free. According to the 2025 Budget Book, the Ministry of Education (MoE) provides support through student allowance programmes, including funding for school stationery and pocket money for students.
4. Social policies and family support programmes
School Fees Programme for Underprivileged Children
The School Fees Programme, managed by the Social Welfare Division of the Ministry of Women, Youth, Sports and Social Affairs (MWYSSA), provides school fee support to underprivileged children, including orphans and those with disabled parents. Initially targeting children under 14, the programme shifted after 2016 to primarily support students aged 16–18.
Kiribati School and Centre for Children with Special Needs (KSCCSN)
The Kiribati School and Centre for Children with Special Needs (KSCCSN), based in the capital, supports children with disabilities from preschool to primary level. Established in 1991 as a non-governmental institution, it initially relied on external funding and parent contributions. Over time, the Ministry of Education began collaborating with the school. Only children residing on Tarawa Island are eligible to enrol, with an average of 27 children served per year.
5. School meal programmes
The Kiribati School Meals Programme, initiated in 1922 and implemented by the Ministry of Education (MoE), provides lunch to students in senior secondary schools. In 2020, the programme operated exclusively at this level, covering two public schools, including boarding facilities. Its objectives are to enhance educational achievement, provide a social safety net, and meet students’ nutritional needs through daily in-school meals during the academic year. The programme is fully funded by the national government, with no financial contributions from international donors or the private sector.
The programme aligns with the Nutrition Policy and Plan of Action, which prioritises improved food and nutrition security for children. Nutritionists contribute to programme design, while cooks and caterers receive specialised training to ensure meals meet nutritional standards. Lunch menus are planned to include body-building proteins such as fish and meat, energy-providing staples like rice and bread, and protective foods including fruits and vegetables, ensuring balanced and adequate meals.
The Ministry of Education (MoE) leads implementation, with planned collaboration from the Health, Agriculture, and Fisheries ministries to strengthen monitoring and integrate nutrition education into the curriculum.
This profile was reviewed by Dr. Susanne Owen, Adjunct Senior Research Fellow, Education Futures, University of South Australia.
