Growing up at Onengali village and attending Okadila Primary School, my teacher, Mee Maria, always reminded us that education is the key.
Inspired by her words, I dreamed of one day becoming a university student.
What I did not know was the hardship that comes with student life.
Today, knowledge is overshadowed by the harsh reality of rising living costs and inadequate support systems.
Food and rental prices are skyrocketing, learning materials are unaffordable, and the pressure of balancing studies with income-generating activities is overwhelming.
Many students, myself included, face exorbitant rent and cannot afford essentials such as personal computers.
Across the country, students are turning into small-scale entrepreneurs simply to survive.
Social platforms meant for learning are now flooded with “order with me” advertisements.
Academics are increasingly treated as part-time pursuits, while the daily struggle to secure income takes priority.
This situation highlights a deep flaw: the non-tuition fees provided through student loans are nowhere near enough to sustain a student.
Who covers the shortfall, especially for those without family support? The result is hardship that discourages high school pupils from aspiring to higher education.
Student unions, meant to be a voice for learners, often focus on politics instead of addressing the real challenges. Meanwhile, countless students suffer in silence, burdened by debt, hunger, and stress.
The government urgently needs to respond.
Failure to act risks producing graduates with degrees but little knowledge or skill in their fields.
As Carl Rogers warned, true education is not about passing exams, but about learning how to learn and adapt.
Concrete solutions exist. Non-tuition fee support should be increased, or exemptions introduced for essentials such as food and study materials.
Rental prices for students should be regulated, or government should take full responsibility for providing affordable student housing.
As Nelson Mandela said, education is the most powerful weapon for change.
Benjamin Franklin also reminded us that an investment in education pays the best interest.
By easing the financial burdens of students, government can ensure that education remains a beacon of hope – not a battle for survival.
– Shikudule Fillemon
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