Schools across Fiji have been placed on alert following reports of a scam involving a person falsely claiming to be affiliated with the Embassy of Japan.

The Ministry of Education said it was notified by the Embassy of Japan about two incidents reported this year. The first occurred at Bureiwai School in Korovou on 23 April, while the second was recorded at Seaqaqa Central College on 19 May.

According to the Embassy’s First Secretary, Kayano Naoki, the individual involved in the Seaqaqa incident identified himself as a GGP Coordinator. He allegedly attempted to obtain documents from the school and requested money linked to documentation processes.

The Ministry has also received information indicating that the same person may have been visiting schools without authorisation, conducting consultations and seeking payments for transport, meals and consultancy-related services.

Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro has called on school leaders to remain vigilant and verify the credentials of anyone claiming to represent the Embassy of Japan or other development partners before sharing information or providing financial assistance.

He stressed that schools should not hand over money to individuals or organisations without proper verification and urged immediate reporting of any suspicious activity.

The Minister said all such incidents should be reported promptly to the relevant Divisional Education Office and authorities to allow for swift investigations.

The Ministry of Education says it will continue working closely with the Embassy of Japan to protect schools from fraudulent schemes and maintain the integrity of partnerships that support educational development in Fiji.