Avocado
Well-known member
Tim Joe,Can you elaborate on what you mean by a significant discount? Regarding student loans, they are subject to the inflation rate (RPI), historically staying below 1% for several years. However, even if inflation and RPI increase, the loan remains proportionate due to the overall inflation of wages and property values. In response to the UK's elevated inflation, the RPI was capped below the inflation rate, ensuring a financial advantage. Regardless of the rate, monthly payments remain unaffected. The advisable early repayment strategy mainly applies to high earners, given the additional 3% applied between £28k and £50k (e.g., 1.8% at £38k).
Considering the dropout rate, if education were free, individuals would bear the cost. Moreover, many people possess degrees unrelated to their work or unnecessary for their professions. The existence of discounts (e.g., travel, social) and loans at virtually 0% interest with RPI parity, funded by taxpayers, adds another layer to the discussion.
This situation seems to suggest a desire for increased lifetime earnings, with the expectation that others will bear the financial burden.
Whether or not there's free university education, taxes are inevitable. If someone pursues studies and decides to discontinue, that's acceptable; at least they gained the experience without plunging into overwhelming debt that can lead to mental health issues and substance abuse, burdening taxpayers further. Where's the compassion? You sound cruel.
It's preferable for governments to utilize tax funds to directly enhance citizens' lives rather than supporting inhumane endeavors or extravagant ceremonies. You're contributing to those too, and I haven't heard your opinion on it. Even if a couple of individuals drop out of university, many more successfully complete their education, becoming engineers, scientists, medical professionals, etc., without drowning in debt. This is a positive contribution to society. While they may earn more, they reciprocate by paying back tenfold in taxes, completing the cycle and fully covering their education costs.
Why do some oppose straightforward, compassionate measures that cause no harm and only bring benefits? I can't comprehend such callousness. This narrow-minded, self-centered perspective is detrimental to everyone involved. You all sound like animals.