As I witness my colleagues struggling with the increasingly heavy financial burden engendered by the excessive fee hikes at BITS Pilani, I am compelled to fight against this unjust system for their sakes, and for the sake of all current and future students. BITS Pilani, with already challenging course structures, is escalating the intensity of the pressure by intensifying the economic burden on the students. These fee increases only appear to aggravate this situation.

To illustrate the gravity of this issue: hostel fees at the Pilani campus have been hiked by a staggering 58% this year alone, further compounding the already crushing financial load. More alarmingly, the total annual cost of studying at BITS has risen by over 1089% since 2007, compared to just a 200% rise in middle-class household income and a 143% rise in median engineering salaries during the same period. What was once an accessible institution for middle-income families has become increasingly out of reach, even for those earning above-average incomes. This isn’t just inflation, it’s exclusion.

The hikes do not only impact students and their families economically, but mentally as well - prompting significant strain and turmoil. And it is disheartening to see this happen, knowing that the institution is thriving tremendously with incredible profits. It is a known fact that the revenue generated by BITS Pilani doubles up every few years. These profits should be a driver for investment into student support and education, rather than an excuse for imposing excessive fees.

This is not merely a plea for financial reprieve, but an appeal for attention to the serious issue of student mental health. The relentless quest for a quality education should not come at the cost of mental stability.

We request the BITS Pilani Administration to provide transparency regarding the fee structure, engage in an open dialogue with students, and consider reducing the excessive fees, which, for many, mark the difference between pursuing their dreams and abandoning them. Please support us in this endeavor - it is not just about balancing books, it's about changing lives.

Sign this petition.

More details on: fee-hike.vercel.app