PUTRAJAYA: The Higher Education ministry will identify students who claim to be facing financial problems and report on their welfare said minister Datuk Seri Idris Jusoh today.
Idris said he had asked Deputy Vice Chancellor and Student Affairs offices in all public universities to quickly identify these students and help them. They are also required to report to him as soon as possible on the issue.
"I understand that some students are shy to come forward or don't know where to seek help. Some students even utilise their National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN) to help their families," he said in a statement earlier.
His statement was issued following recent news reports claiming that some public university students did not have enough money to buy food, which had negatively affected the student’s health.
Idris said that the ministry and public universities prioritised the students well-being and welfare.
"Therefore, the ministry has taken several measures including establishing National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN) and the Student Card, tithe, 'Khairat' and welfare funds," he added.
Idris said the ministry had also set up free food assistance programmes including food coupons, prepaid meals and free food distributions.
"If all other efforts fail, I believe that lecturers and fellow classmates will help if they have a friend in trouble. It is much hoped through the concerted effort by all relevant parties, that the student’s welfare will be guaranteed," he added.