Just realized what a big Valentine's present our dear NUS has prepared for us. a Fee hike of $180 per sem. NUSSU has opened a forum to collect students' opinions, though I doubt what the use there is since the decision has already been made and announced. Anyway, here's some quotes from a post in th forum: 

"Unlike the case of public transportation, a tertiary education is a want and not a need and the tuition grant we get is a privilege, not a right.

For some of our international students, the extra $180 can probably buy a lot back home. They will, of course, understand the the political need to benefit the locals more than non-locals, hence the 10 % extra. Think about it this way. Back in their country of origin, the locals will demand having more benefits from foreigners including Singaporeans. Singapore isn't a charity. If the international student finds conditions here too much to bear, they might want to find other alternatives. After all, they are not compelled to study here. In the first place, they are already given a treat, in that they are receiving social benefits already without having had to contribute to our society by having their parents pay tax, or by providing for the common defense in national service, etc."

Crude remarks, but real facts. Well, I really feel fortunate that I've been here long enough to disbelieve the facade of so-called "second home", but though the Sgp Enterprise is not our hometown, it also "asks not what it can do for us, but asks what we can do for it". :P

one question: How many students, including those struggling to have their ends met, are going to pack up and leave if NUS give a fee hike of, say, even $500? or are you just going to struggle harder? Well, the answer explains why there'd be a fee hike however you appeal, complaint or protest. (demand>supply)=increase in price.

Guess we are going to feel better if we can remember the fact that Singapore welcomes us only because we are potential talents(money makers). Of course, we should be grateful and asks not what the Singapore Enteprise can do for us but what we can do for the Singapore Entereprise. :P

perhaps it is more "pragmatic" (the Singapore approach) to start looking for another part-time. Anyway, the decision has been made and announced, and whatever Q&A there'd be, there's not going to be any solid change that can really help. Gotta help oneself then.

well, well, one word, there's no place like home.