Growing up, we all have different aspirations, and one is education. Why bring students to their disperse, if you can just leave them unadmitted? Education is indeed a crucial aspect of life, and it should be an option that is accessible to all, not a privilege reserved for a select few. The phrase “education is key” is a cliché, but it holds immense truth.
Education empowers individuals, breaks cycles of poverty, and fosters personal growth. However, the reality in Abraka, Nigeria, and many other places, is that the high cost of living creates a significant barrier for students, particularly those from low-income backgrounds.
Abraka, a university town in Delta State, Nigeria, is home to the prestigious Delta State University. While the town offers a hub for academic excellence, it also poses a significant challenge to students due to its high cost of living. The exorbitant prices of accommodation, food, and other essential services have created a harsh reality for students, particularly those from low-income backgrounds. In this article, we will delve into the impact of the high cost of living in Abraka on struggling students and propose potential solutions.
Impact on struggling students:
Financial burden: The high cost of living in Abraka forces students to bear an immense financial burden, leading to increased stress and anxiety.
Reduced academic performance: The struggle to make ends meet distracts students from their academic pursuits, resulting in poor performance and decreased productivity.
Health implications: Students often opt for unhealthy and affordable food options, compromising their health and wellbeing.
Social isolation: The financial strain leads to social isolation, as students cannot afford to participate in social activities or join clubs and organizations.
Solutions:
Affordable accommodation: The university and local government can collaborate to provide affordable housing options for students, reducing the financial burden.
Subsidized food services: The university can offer subsidized food services or partner local vendors to provide affordable meal options.
Scholarships and bursaries: Increased scholarship and bursary opportunities can help alleviate the financial burden on students.
Part-time job opportunities: The university can create part-time job opportunities for students, enabling them to earn a living while pursuing their studies.
Financial literacy programmes: The university can organize financial literacy programmes, educating students on effective budgeting and financial management.
Community engagement: Local organizations and individuals can offer support services, such as food banks and mentorship programmes, to struggling students.
Government intervention: The government can implement policies to control the cost of living in Abraka, ensuring that essential services are affordable for students.
The high cost of living in Abraka poses a significant challenge to students, however, by implementing the proposed solutions the university, local government, and community can work together to alleviate the financial burden on students and create a more conducive learning environment. By supporting our students, we can foster academic excellence, promote social inclusivity, and shape the future leaders of our nation.
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Divinefavour, a student of Delta State University, Abraka, writes from Abraka
