Nadiya Rashid Naik
The decision of the Islamic University of Science & Technology to impose exorbitant semester fees has caused alarm within the academic community, and this demands careful examination.
The subject of accessibility is at the core of this problem, which calls for a closer examination because it has a direct impact on accessibility, equity, and the entire pursuit of education.
The cost of higher education should be protected as a fundamental right because it is a cornerstone of societal advancement. The university’s exorbitant semester tuition may prevent students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds from accessing a high-quality education.
The lack of transparency surrounding the distribution of the fees is also concerning. To ensure that students and their families are aware of where their money is going, a thorough description of the costs is essential. Without a clear understanding of the fee structure, students are left in the dark, unable to comprehend the true value of the education they are receiving.
Additionally, the economic strain brought on by such exorbitant fees may have a negative effect on students’ mental and emotional health. A university should be a place that fosters both academic and personal development, but when students experience excessive financial hardship, they may find it difficult to completely commit to their studies and extracurricular activities.
In light of these concerns, it is crucial for the university to reconsider its stance on semester fees. A balanced approach that factors in the economic realities faced by students, while also ensuring the university’s sustainability, should be the guiding principle. Engaging in open dialogues with student representatives and stakeholders can facilitate a more equitable fee structure that aligns with the institution’s educational values.
The university’s expensive semester fees call for thoughtful consideration and reconsideration. It is critical that the institution recognizes these issues and moves pro-actively to implement a more just and equitable method to fee determination because the accessibility, transparency, and wellbeing of students may be at risk, otherwise.
The Author is the former spokesperson of Central University Students’ federation and the views expressed her are entirely her own.