Moratorium needed on fee payment at private universities, colleges

 

From Thomas Samuel

The Covid-19 pandemic has evolved into a major socio-economic crisis, an unprecedented situation that many were not prepared for because of the continuing length of the crisis.

SMEs and other small businesses are badly affected, with many having to close shop. The economy is also falling apart for many as jobs are being cut, disruptions are increasing in the supply chain and upending businesses, and poverty is rising, especially among vulnerable groups and the B40.

We are seeing every segment of the population being affected in one way or another. To help cushion the impact of the pandemic, the government of the day is implementing many programmes and schemes to lighten the burden of the rakyat.

However, while the government is doing its best to help the people, many private institutions of higher learning seem to turning a blind eye to the needs of students during these trying times.

Many of them are pursuing the students for outstanding fees. And if the students default on their payments, they may be barred from certain academic activities or, worse still, from graduating altogether.

The prime minister had announced moratorium extensions and provision of repayment flexibility to targeted groups by the banks, financial institutions and others. Even students’ obligations on PTPTN loans have been given a reprieve by the higher education ministry. Why then are private universities and colleges not being compassionate to students and parents facing financial difficulties?

I had written more than a month ago to higher education minister Noraini Ahmad about this predicament among many students. Unfortunately, I have not received any response from her or from her ministry.

I believe the government should consider a moratorium for students who are caught in this dilemma and are unable to fulfil their financial commitments because of the pandemic. Institutions of higher learning should not force students to pay or block them from educational activities until payment is received. That is inconsiderate and does not speak well of the values being instilled at such institutions.

This is a real-life situation faced by many parents, especially those who have lost their jobs and those forced to close their businesses. How will they be able to fulfil their financial obligations during these difficult times? Parents are carrying the guilt of seeing their children become victims of such circumstances. The students also face humiliation and embarrassment among their peers as they are sidelined from all activities at their universities and colleges.

Why is the higher education minister silent on this matter even after it has been brought to her attention? It is irresponsible for the minister, as an elected representative and who is in a position to help – to ignore this appeal.

I hope the prime minister can step in. His focus should be on the interest of the students and education, as opposed to profit for the private universities and colleges.

With the MCO being extended further to Feb 18, the misery of this group of students and parents will continue. Please do not allow our students to be victims of those motivated only by profit.

Thomas Samuel is an FMT reader.

The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of MMKtT.