LETTERS: I am very concerned about insufficient financial support for students pursuing higher education in Malaysia.
While the government's National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN) study loans aim to help students pay for their education, I believe there is still a significant gap that needs to be addressed.
This is especially for students who do not qualify for PTPTN assistance due to the income level of their parents. Many of them face financial hardships that prevent them from pursuing their studies.
My daughter, who is a university student, shared many stories about students who are forced to live on a shoestring budget. This creates a barrier to good education for some students.
Even among PTPTN borrowers, the funds may not always be sufficient to cover the full cost of their education.
With the rising expenses associated with tuition fees, accommodation, textbooks and other essential living costs, many students struggle to make ends meet. This not only affects their academic performance but also adds to their stress and anxiety, undermining their wellbeing.
It is heartening to see some institutions taking steps to address this issue by offering schemes similar to PTPTN that are tailored for students from poor families.
This is a great help to students facing financial difficulties.
More higher education institutions need to follow suit and implement similar support systems to ensure that no student is left behind due to financial constraints.
Perhaps, the government can consider revising the eligibility criteria for PTPTN loans to include students who may not meet the income criteria, but can demonstrate genuine financial need.
Additionally, there should be greater transparency and efficiency in the disbursement of funds to minimise delays and uncertainties faced by students.
Universities and colleges should explore alternative financing options, such as scholarships, grants, and work-study programmes to supplement financial aid schemes.
Collaborations with private corporations and non-profit organisations can provide additional resources to support students.
By ensuring that student have equal access to quality education, regardless of their financial circumstances, we can unlock the full potential of our children and build a more inclusive and equitable society.
CHEW CHOON LAI
Kuala Lumpur
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times