Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Hon. Professor Biman Prasad, today officially launched the Tertiary Scholarships and Loans Service (TSLS) Travel and Bond Clearance Portal, along with its AI-integrated 24-hour Chatbot Service.
Speaking at the launch, Professor Prasad highlighted the transformative potential of AI in education, governance, and policymaking.
“AI will have profound impacts on education, politics, and governance. It will enable personalized learning, automate administrative tasks, and enhance access to education and skill development,” he said.
The TSLS Travel and Bond Clearance Portal, combined with the Chatbot Service, marks a technological milestone for the institution.
Professor Prasad stated that the portal is expected to generate efficiency and productivity gains, benefiting the thousands of students TSLS serves annually.
“With the function of Travel and Bond Clearance reverting to TSLS as legislated by Parliament in 2024, it is imperative to have robust systems in place to ensure efficient administration and a seamless user experience.”
The AI-powered 24-hour Chatbot Service was also emphasized as a critical tool in today’s digital age.
“This service provides real-time access to accurate and factual information, empowering students, parents, institutions, and other stakeholders to make informed decisions. Individuals will no longer have to wait or travel long distances to obtain information,” Professor Prasad said.
“The Government continues to collaborate with TSLS to implement reforms that address the evolving needs of stakeholders in higher education. With $151 million allocated annually for scholarships and training schemes, the Coalition Government is committed to building a resilient workforce capable of meeting future development needs,” he said.
New initiatives, including the Employer-Based Skills Qualification Scheme and the Specialization Scheme, were also introduced to provide targeted training opportunities in areas such as Veterinary Science and specialized engineering disciplines.
Enhancing Transparency and Efficiency
The Travel and Bond Clearance Portal is expected to benefit approximately 70,000 current and former students. Approvals will now be processed electronically, with Immigration and Border Control having access to the portal to verify clearances.
“This integration enhances transparency, efficiency, and accountability for both users and TSLS. It is a game-changer in improving service delivery,” the Minister said.
