ORANJESTAD, Aruba – Aruba Families Face Higher Back-to-School Costs as the new school year approaches and parents prepare to purchase uniforms, shoes, school bags, supplies and other essentials their children need to return to class.
Parliamentarian Jennifer Arends-Reyes said that while the beginning of a new school year is often an exciting period for children, it can also create considerable financial pressure for many parents and households across Aruba.
Arends-Reyes said she understands the reality from both a personal and professional perspective. As a mother and someone with experience in the education sector, she noted that the start of the school year brings happiness and anticipation, but also a long list of expenses that can quickly affect a family’s monthly budget.
For that reason, the parliamentarian described the social financial support package recently announced by the Government of Aruba as a necessary and important measure for families facing the greatest financial difficulties.
During a press conference, Prime Minister Mike Eman and Minister of Social Affairs, Public Health, Elderly Care and Addiction Mervin Wyatt-Ras said the increases in social assistance were based on an evaluation of the cost of living and the day-to-day needs faced by families.
Arends-Reyes said social policy must ultimately be reflected in measures that residents can actually feel in their daily lives. She argued that economic growth and national progress should not be measured only through statistics, but also by whether families experience greater financial stability at home.
Aruba Families Face Higher Back-to-School Costs at a time when household budgets are already being stretched by essential expenses. Arends-Reyes said support related to the beginning of the school year should be viewed not only as financial assistance, but also as an investment in equal opportunity for children.
She emphasized that no child should feel embarrassed or disadvantaged because their family is struggling financially. In her view, every student should have the opportunity to enter the classroom with a proper uniform, school bag and necessary educational materials.
The parliamentarian said a positive start to the school year can help children feel more confident and prepared to learn. Ensuring that students have the basic items they need can therefore support both their educational development and emotional well-being.
Arends-Reyes also stressed that the government should continue evaluating the cost of living and adjust social support when necessary. While she welcomed additional assistance, she said policymakers must continue listening to families and identifying the areas where financial pressure is most severe.
According to her, each form of additional support can make a difference, but long-term solutions require continued attention to household expenses and the economic challenges faced by ordinary residents.
She concluded by wishing students, parents and education professionals success as preparations continue for the new academic year.
Arends-Reyes said her hope is that every child in Aruba can enter the classroom with enthusiasm, confidence and dignity. She added that creating opportunities for children strengthens families, and stronger families ultimately contribute to a stronger Aruba.
