A sophomore at Taichung’s Chaoyang University of Technology, surnamed Li (李), died by suicide last month after the university rejected his request for a leave of absence. He was unable to pay one-third of his tuition — about NT$18,000. Many have accused the university of having a rigid and callous system. However, university education is different from compulsory education — students have the freedom to make their own decisions.
Under the higher education system, all universities have mechanisms for tuition waivers, as well as financial aid programs. Students from low or middle-income households, special circumstances, indigenous backgrounds, or those with physical or mental disabilities can apply for partial or full tuition exemptions. These systems are designed to assist economically disadvantaged students. That these tuition waivers require active application is a form of assurance — transparency of resource allocations is guaranteed through the application and review process. For a university to proceed with fee collection or suspension in accordance with regulations if a student fails to apply on time does not constitute negligence.
Most universities have staff to provide support for students’ living, finances and mental health. It is important to ensure that students know these resources exist and that they can be used.
We must help students understand that seeking help in the face of hardship is not a sign of weakness, but an act of courage. There are advisors at universities who can offer guidance and help students find solutions — no student should have to face such challenges alone. Systems exist to protect people, and that protection begins the very moment someone finds the will to speak up. Hopefully, this incident serve as a reminder of the importance of ensuring that students know where to turn for help. When a problem arises, it is okay to speak out. No matter the challenge, there is always a way — there is always a path forward.
Ken is the pen name of a social worker.
Translated by Kyra Gustavsen
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