Speaking in an interview, Vasco Mqobi Madhlopa, President of the Movement for Change, said the hike is unaffordable for many parents, most of whom are farmers.
“The 100 percent fee increase is hard to meet. The magnitude of the increase presents a significant burden to students and their families, Regardless of the rationale, the new fee is beyond the reach of many households, especially given that incomes have not risen proportionally in recent years,” Madhlopa said.
He further said while recent communication indicates that all 46 applicants will be covered by the Higher Education Students’ Loans and Grants Board and FDH Bank loan support, the annual loan application process raises fears that some students may be left out ,this will bring more problems to such students.
Madhlopa also highlighted that students under Open and Distance Learning, upgrading programs, and weekend programs are not eligible for loans through the Loans Board.
“These programs serve working students whose income sources have not increased by 100 percent over the past five years. The fee adjustment therefore places an unsustainable burden on this group,” he said.
Ibrahim Ishmael, a student at the Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources, said government should consider a 50 percent increment instead of 100 percent.
He said the 100 percent increase is hindering students from less privileged families from accessing education.
“There are other students who were already struggling to raise K650,000. Some kept their accommodation hoping that if they found fees they would come back. But up to now, because of the 100 percent fee increment, they are unable to return and access education,” Ishmael said.
