Subsidy Increase just what the Dentist ordered

31/1/00

Attention: Education/ Political Reporters

Subsidy Increase just what the Dentist ordered

The Otago University Students' Association (OUSA) welcomed today's Government announcement that the cost of dentistry fees will decrease approximately $11,000 for the start of the 2000 academic year.

It was discovered last year that the National Government had knowingly overcharged Otago Dentistry students since 1994. Dentistry students launched a campaign to have their fees decreased which included public protest and lobbying by the University council and the Vice Chancellor Dr Graham Fogelberg.

"Today's changes are a just reward for the time and effort put in by Dentistry students in 1999. This Government appears to be listening to the demands of student's who are not prepared to lay down quietly when a Government lies", said Andrew Campbell OUSA President 2000.

The cost of dental fees, which had increased up to $21, 590 a year, was a major barrier for many students wishing to enter Dentistry.

"It is positive to see the Government rectifying the situation in Dentistry funding. I hope this carries over into the general debate on high tuition fees which act prohibitively in students accessing tertiary education", said Campbell.

Ends.

© Scoop Media