In the current day, opinions are divided around fees for higher education that should be paid in full by local authorities. While this proposal is valid to some extent the reasons behind this thinking, I would argue that students are still responsible for the tertiary payment.
Granted, it is understandable why learners should be free to study higher education. The key rationale behind this is higher levels of innovation and productivity growth of a nation. Authorities invest in the university’s fees creating a more well-educated workforce, leading to contribution to the country’s technology and economy. If learners refuse to go to tertiary education because of high fees, a shortage of under-provision skilled workers will occur. Another justification is ensuring equality. No matter what the student’s background is, individuals can all gain access to university. As a result, this strategy encourages underprivileged people to have a chance to access a vast repository of knowledge.
However, the growth in the number of skilled laborers can result in competitiveness. For example, companies would prioritize people who have high exceptional over those with normal degrees.
In my opinion, I firmly believe that it would be imprudent for students to pay their high education prices. First and foremost, paying the full cost by themselves can increase a sense of responsibility and ownership in their education. With an appreciation for the value of their money, people tend to improve their motivation and dedication to their studies synonymous with effective courses. Moreover, paying the full cost of their higher education enhances students’s financial and time management skills. By balancing part-time work and studies, learners can develop these vital real-life skills.
To conclude, why there are some justifications against free tertiary education, I take the view that the balanced approach between the role of students and the government in the fee for higher education is more conducive to the overall development of a nation.