MOST classes are starting on Monday, June 5. I hope students have taken the opportunity to relax and recharge, and get ready for another school year. For many college students, it’s still enrollment time—a challenging period for many parents. There is the issue of tuition increases in some private schools, and one of the most talked about topic: the free tuition program of the government for state colleges and universities.
It would seem as if there are few reasons (or excuses) why a student wouldn’t be able to go to college these days. Aside from the free tuition program, there are other Student Financial Assistance Programs (StuFAPs) being offered not only by the Commission on Higher Education (Ched), but also by other government agencies. Plus, there are the institutional scholarships and private scholarship programs from various organizations, foundations, corporations and other private individuals.
According to data, tuition makes up around 30 percent to 40 percent of a student’s total cost of education. The other expenses include miscellaneous fees, books, uniforms, board and lodging, transportation expense, etc. If a student could, for example, secure two
StuFAP benefits to cover for tuition and part of the remaining 60 percent to 70 percent of total expense, then there is a bigger chance for the student to finish college and be able to secure a decent job after college.
The fact is that there is help being offered—help from the government and private institutions. Some students and/or their parents may not be aware of these or they may not have the patience to go through the application and screening process, or maybe in some cases, they may simply be uninterested. We have to remember that offering help is only half of the story; the beneficiary or recipient should also be willing and able to help himself or herself. All the effort and hard work will have to come from the student and his or her family, including the willingness to do what needs to be done to reach the goal.
So where can college students apply for StuFAPs? As far as government agencies are concerned, the following are just some of those that offer benefits for college students: Ched; Technical Education and Skills Development Authority; the departments of Science and Technology, Social Welfare and Development, Agriculture and Health; National Commission on Indigenous Peoples; Armed Forces of the Philippines Education; and Benefit System Office.
Students can take note of this for next year since it is already too late to apply for financial assistance at this time. What students and parents can do at this point would be to look at the requirements and qualifications, and then to complete these in time for the next round of screening.
Now that we are beginning another school year, let us prepare to work hard and develop the values necessary to reach success. Let us not depend totally on other people doing things for us. Students, be ready to work hard this school year. Parents, be willing to support your children’s education so they can reach their dreams. Put effort into your studies and you’ll reap the rewards in the end.