Student anger over VUW fee hike

Students at Victoria University are today condemning a move by the
university council to increase student fees for 2006 by up to 10%.

"Students present at the council meeting today were clearly angry at the
decision to increase fees. Not doubt many more will be angry when they
return next year to find their fees have increased dramatically while they
have been away," said Nick Kelly, Vice-President of the Victoria University
Students' Association (VUWSA).

"The university has posted surpluses for the last 3 years and has
under-predicted student enrolments for the coming year. Victoria is not a
tertiary institution in a bad financial situation so the 5-10% fee increases
are completely irresponsible and unacceptable," said Kelly.

The council fee setting meeting was held away from the traditional location
in the Hunter Building in Kelburn to the more remote Karori campus. Despite
this around 50 students turned up during their exam period to voice their
concern at the increases.

"In this years general election Labour promised to write off interest for
student loans. It appears that while the government promises to give with
one hand, its taking with the other by allowing tertiary institutions to
increase student fees" said Kelly

"The number of students accessing the VUWSA foodbank increased by 33% this
year after a 4.5% increase in fees, the 5-10% fee increased passed today is
also likely to increase hardship for Victoria students," said Kelly.

The Victoria University Council today voted for a 5% across the board fee
increase and will apply to the Tertiary Education Commission for an
additional 5% increase for Humanities and Social Science students.

The Victoria University Education Action Group and VUWSA are organising a
march on Parliament for Thursday March the 9th, which is the second week of
term 1 classes in 2006.

Related

http://www.vuwsa.org.nz