I write this petition living the struggle several Sri Lankan students are going through – starved of the chance to access education due to limited visa application slots provided by the German Embassy in Sri Lanka. Regardless of our efforts – studying diligently, securing placements in German institutions, depositing €13000 in blocked accounts, and passing language courses - our dreams are stunted. We are asked to apply for the next semester as the slots are full. Some have been waiting for an appointment for over 3 years.

I've personally lost a significant sum of more than a million rupees due to exchange rates and fees while withdrawing and re-depositing funds from my blocked account. This financial burden has come from loans placed on my family's home and depleted my father's pension fund. The interest for these loans is still being paid off from my mother's modest salary. 

Three others would also be lost a chance due to my unused offer letters.

This issue is critical and urgent. This system infringes on our right to study abroad and limits opportunities for those who cannot afford to study in paid universities elsewhere. The majority of us are from low-income families and are penalized for our financial constraints.

We demand that the German Embassy in Sri Lanka increase the number of slots for student visa applications. In doing so, it will ensure access for poorer students and more efficient use of the available academic placements in Germany. We seek fairness, justice, and an immediate resolution to this issue. We urge everyone, fellow students and advocates for education, to sign this petition and help us make a change. Sign, and become a catalyst for change. Sign, for education is a right, not a privilege.