Youth groups on Wednesday condemned the death of a college student who complained of “exorbitant” fees and “heavy workload” and reiterated the need for Filipino students to have an “education that caters to their welfare and interests.”
The National Union of Students of the Philippines said it received reports that a student died by suicide. “Before claiming his own life, the student posted in social media a farewell note wherein he cited the struggles he faced,” the group said.
Based on earlier reports, the student of a school on E. Rodriguez Ave. in Quezon City reportedly jumped from the 24thfloor of a condominium in Quezon City.
“Among his problems are the exorbitant tuition fees charged by the University. He worked while studying to cope with the costs of education but he had difficulty juggling his schedule given the demanding academic requirements,” NUSP said.
“Moreover, he mentioned that students in the school are unable to express their grievances on matters that affect them,” the group added.
The NUSP expressed its “deep sympathies to the victim and his loved ones” and “grieves with the family and friends of the victim.”
The group noted that while mental health problems are “caused and influenced by a multitude of factors, it is enraging that school fees and academic load could become part of those factors.”
The group believes that “Filipino students deserve an education that caters to their welfare and interests.” It added that “it is the right of students to have an education that is free and accessible to all, and is conducive for learning and the exercise of students’ democratic rights.” (Ina Hernando Malipot)
