The Union of Students in Ireland said yesterday that one in five first-year students drops out of college annually.
It claimed non-completion of courses was costing the Exchequer £100 million - money which could be saved by implementing USI's action plan on the problem. The £100 million is based on the survey of student performance at third-level by the Commission on the Points System and the Department of Education's own figures.
Mr Darren McCallig, USI education officer, said the Minister for Education should put £10 million in USI-proposed initiatives to identify and support students in difficulties and enhance financial support, rather than continuing to "waste" £100 million a year. The Minister now had plans to spend just £1.5 million on the problem.
The USI plan, launched yesterday, stressed that any new system of student financial support must give more to those students most at risk - those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
It wants the introduction of an extra maintenance grant of £750 a year for poorer students. It also emphasises personal tutors/student advisers, student peer supports and study skills classes.
