Many parents have voiced concerns over the future of their children who were unable to return to their studies in New Caledonia. Clement Zephirin, a concerned parent, spoke with VBTC News, questioning the Ministry’s plans for the students left behind. He raised the issue, saying, “What are the reasons they don’t want to send about 70 students back to UNC? These students are victims of the situation, and they all have a right to education.”

Joe Gideon, Principal Scholarship Officer, addressed the situation, stating that based on reports from the New Caledonia consulate, the first step would be to send only final-year students back to UNC. He explained, “The Scholarship Board has decided to prioritize final-year students, following the Council of Ministers’ decision. It’s easier to manage, and despite the border reopening, factors like high living expenses and the delay in the government’s budget have made it unfeasible to send the entire group back.”

Regarding the other students affected by the repatriation, Mr. Gideon reassured parents that alternative plans are being developed. “The government is working on opening new opportunities for these students, with potential placements in Vietnam. The Ministry of Education’s Director General is actively pursuing an MOU to make this a reality.”

The Scholarship Office remains committed to finding suitable alternatives for the remaining students on scholarship, exploring different options to ensure their education continues without further disruption.

The repatriation of over 100 students followed a series of riots in New Caledonia last year, and due to the dissolution of parliament, the Council of Ministers’ orders could not be enforced immediately. However, the government has now lifted those restrictions.