The Vanuatu government has announced it is extending free education through to year 10.
A 'School' sign in Port Vila. Photo: RNZI / Jamie Tahana
Currently children from year 1 to year 6 qualify for free education, with the government covering their school fees in public schools.
The Minister of Education, Jean Pierre Nirua, made this announcement to hundreds of children and their parents celebrating Children's Day at Saralana Park in Port Vila on Monday.
Our correspondent says the decision will delight parents who struggle to pay the fees.
