By Fatmata Binta Bah
University life, with its promise of academic growth and personal development, is often seen as a rite of passage into adulthood. However, beneath the veneer of opportunity lie a myriad of challenges that confront students on their educational journey. From academic pressures to social expectations, financial burdens to mental health struggles, the path through higher education is fraught with obstacles that test the resilience and perseverance of even the most determined individuals.
At the heart of the university experience lies the pursuit of knowledge and academic excellence, yet the demanding curriculum, rigorous deadline and high expectations can create a pressure environment where students feel overwhelmed and stressed.
Ahmed Tejan Sandi, a student at Fourah Bay College studying public relations and marketing communication lamented how he has envisaged many challenges ranging from health, finance, mental and emotional stress, it has been extremely difficult for him to surmount these challenges and there was a time he felt like giving up but, with the motivation from friends and colleagues kept him pushing.
Balancing coursework, assignments and exams while he strives to maintain high grades can take a toll on mental and physical well-being, leading to burnout and academic disengagement.
He added that the university administration need to improve in so many ways such as improved spacious lecture rooms, proper and equipped departmental laboratories, fear and just treatment of students, cutting down of unnecessary extra charges on fees, decrement of fees and the submission of grades on time.
He added that university administration should ensure students’ rights are observed and respected.
He pleaded with the government to give out full grant-in-aid that includes all extra charges on the fees list and not interfere in the running of the university, that they should only oversight and advice. The Ministry of Tertiary Education should strive to room out WASSCE results on time so that the university calendar is in place.
Abdulai Fofanah, a student at the Faculty of Communication Media and Information studies Fourah Bay College University of Sierra Leone, also expressed challenges.
First is the financial constraints he’s undergoing. For many students, the purple of higher education comes with a hefty price tag. Tuition fees, textbooks, accommodation and living expenses can quickly add up. He talked about the challenges he faced in transportation and how he spends almost all his allowance on transportation just so he could be on campus on time for lectures. The rising cost of education coupled up with limited financial burden on individuals and their families.
He added that university life is a delicate balancing act, requiring students to juggle multiple responsibilities and commitment. From academic obligations to extracurricular activity.
Time management prioritization and self-discipline are essential skills for navigating the complexities of university life, yet many students struggle amidst the chaos.
He ended by stating that he would like to see the university administration and government to work hand-in-hand ensuring standard education give out international scholarship to deserving students.
While the challenges faced by university students are manifold and formidable, they also present opportunities for growth resilience and self-discovery.
Through the access of resources such as financial aid, academic support programs students can overcome obstacles and strive on their journey towards graduation and beyond.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Friday, March 1st, 2024 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
