A dire situation is unfolding for students across the country, as they grapple with the rising cost of living and the struggle to make ends meet. The vice-chancellor of Otago University, Grant Robertson, has sounded the alarm, calling for urgent action from the government to address the inadequate support provided to students.
With tens of thousands of students preparing for a new academic year, the reality of their financial struggles is stark. Many are unable to afford basic necessities like rent, electricity, and groceries, leaving them in a precarious position.
Robertson, a former Labour Finance Minister, emphasizes that while his university is doing its best to support students, the primary responsibility lies with the government. He highlights the increasing number of hardship grants being issued by Otago, but believes more needs to be done.
"I would like to see students better supported," he states. "The government's current approach, with regular increases to student loan living costs and allowances, is simply not enough in the face of a significant rise in the cost of living.
However, the government maintains that its support system for tertiary education is among the most generous in the OECD. Minister for Universities, Shane Reti, points out that support payments are adjusted annually for inflation on April 1st.
"Government support covers a substantial portion of study costs for domestic tertiary students," Reti explains. "We fund around three-quarters of fees, and with the student loan subsidy, this rises to over 80%. Tertiary study is an investment in students' futures, as graduates typically enjoy higher earning potential.
But here's where it gets controversial... Students themselves are painting a different picture. They describe a daily battle to make their finances stretch, with heating turned off most of the time and careful monitoring of food expenses.
"It's harder to eat healthily because fruits and vegetables are more expensive," says 18-year-old psychology student Malaika Pasha from the University of Canterbury. "We end up having carb-heavy meals at home.
The University of Canterbury has even resorted to accepting public donations to assist students in hardship. A dedicated webpage encourages donations of up to $500, with the money going towards scholarships.
"Such a worthy way to donate," says the university's deputy vice-chancellor academic, Catherine Moran. "Education can change generations, and every donation, big or small, makes a difference.
And this is the part most people miss... The impact of this support is profound. Flynn Turfrey-Rowe, an electrical engineering student, is a testament to this. He received a scholarship that not only improved his grades but also reduced his stress levels, allowing him to focus more on his studies.
Similar stories are echoed by the University of Auckland Students' Association. President Nimish Milan Singh highlights the high cost of living, with many students working over 10 hours a week or seeking additional jobs to make ends meet.
"Students cannot study if they cannot survive," Singh emphasizes.
So, where do we go from here? The debate continues, but one thing is clear: students need more support to navigate their financial challenges and pursue their academic goals. The question remains: will the government heed the call for action?
