Tag: students

The High Cost of Free School

Free tuition sounds like victory. But for many students, hidden costs and harsh realities still keep them out of school.

Why Some Students Don’t Enroll Even When Public School Is Free

“Free already, yet they still refuse.”

That’s what teachers, principals, and even parents often say. In public schools, tuition is free from Kindergarten to Grade 12. Sounds like a win, right? But still, millions are not enrolling.

Here’s why—it’s not as simple as refusing.

• It’s Free… But Not Really

Tuition is free, yes. But students still need to cover transport fare, lunch, school supplies, uniforms, projects, and printouts. For low-income families, that cost is already overwhelming.

• They Have to Work

Many high school students choose work over class—farming, construction, stores, or anything that brings immediate cash. Survival comes first. Education can wait, or sometimes… never happen.

• They Feel Left Behind

The pandemic disrupted everything. Without gadgets, internet, or help with modules, many fell behind. Now they think, “Should I return? What if I am the weakest one there?” That fear alone keeps them away.

• School Is Too Far

Some students live hours away on foot, with no jeepney, no bike, no ride. If it rains or the heat becomes unbearable, they skip school. Eventually, they drop out completely.

• They’re Not Learning Anyway

Some schools lack resources—no books, no laboratories, no real support. Teachers give their best, but it is still not enough. Students then ask, “Why attend if I’m not truly learning?”

• It’s Too Hot

Classrooms often reach 40°C. No fans, no proper ventilation. Just sweat and stress. Some faint, others stop going altogether. This isn’t laziness—it’s exhaustion from extreme heat.

• They Gave Up During the Pandemic

Many became disconnected and never returned. For them, school now feels optional. Worse, they believe it is already too late to go back.

So… What Now?

If we want students to return, free tuition alone is not enough.

We need:
• Free transport, food, and school supplies
• Catch-up classes for those who fell behind
• Climate-ready classrooms with proper ventilation and design
• More guidance counselors and student support teams
• Real opportunities for learners who must also work

At the heart of it:
Make school free, yes. But also—make school possible, livable, and truly for everyone.

And for those who can go to school: be grateful. Millions long to study but never get the chance. If you have a seat, even just enough for fare and snacks—don’t waste it.

Use what you have. Make it count. That is enough.

ᴛʸᵖⁱⁿᵍ ᴏᵘᵗ ᵒᶠ ᵗʰᵉ ʙˡᵘᵉ ᵈᵃʳᵉᵐ ᵐᵘˢⁱᶜ ᵇˡᵒᵍ