Westpac Fiji Opens Applications for 2026 Women and Girls Education Grant Program
1 April 2026
Westpac Fiji has today announced the opening of its 2026 Westpac Women and Girls Education Grants (WGEG). Now in its 16th year, the program continues to reinforce the bank’s commitment to empowering women and girls through education and financial capability.
Applications are open to female students across Fiji at primary, secondary and tertiary levels, with submissions closing on 1 June 2026.
The program aims to reduce barriers to education by providing financial support to help young women and girls stay in school, pursue further study and achieve their full potential. In addition to financial assistance, all applicants will also benefit from financial literacy training, equipping them with essential money management skills to support their long-term success.
Westpac Fiji Chief Executive Shane Smith said the program reflects the bank’s ongoing commitment to supporting women and girls through education and investment in building stronger, more inclusive communities.
“Education is one of the most powerful tools for change. Through these grants, we are not only supporting access to education but also helping young women and girls build the confidence and financial skills they need to thrive,” Mr Smith said.
Past grant winners, Sonakshi Naidu and Ayzah Aziba, are encouraging all eligible applicants to apply.
Sonakshi, a student at Sabeto College, said her successful essay reflected lived experiences and the role education can play in addressing inequality.
“My submission drew on how girls are treated in my community, at school and within families, and how education can help create positive change,” she said. “Growing up in a large family with five siblings, education has always been prioritised at home.”
Sonakshi is now encouraging parents and guardians to support girls to apply for the grant program.
For Year 12 student Ayzah Aziba from Xavier College in Ba, the application process was a valuable learning experience supported by strong family encouragement.
“My video submission highlighted the inequalities I see in everyday life, where women often don’t have the same opportunities to participate in community, education or business,” Ayzah said. “With guidance from my older sister, I am so proud to say that I transformed a simple concept into a winning submission.”
The Westpac Women and Girls Education Grant Program supports 30 successful applicants each year across three categories: Primary School ($500 grant), Secondary School ($1,000 grant) and Tertiary or Adult Learner ($2,500 grant).
Applications close at 5pm on 1 June 2026. For more information or to apply, visit Westpac Fiji’s website or visit your nearest Westpac branch.
Media contact: