WE had a busy week last week, both locally and nationally. In the college we ran the 'What's Your Attitude' campaign and it was very successful with students looking at how their attitudes to minority groups affect people personally.

We also had a collection for the 'Tír na nÓg' Orphanage in Tanzania. Both students and staff gave generously for a bucket collection and raised more than €500. The orphanage was set up by a girl from Tralee called Laura and now cares for 33 children.

Last week the university heads publicly admitted for the first time that the Student registration charge is a fee by any other name. The charge increases dramatically from €900 to €1,500. It was a decision taken by the Government and not by the University heads as suggested by the Minister of Education.

The seven university presidents were grilled by TDs and senators at an Oireachtas education committee, during which Fine Gael's Brian Hayes criticised the "flexible definitions" of the charge and what it was used for.

After the meeting of the University heads the Higher Education Authority is now looking at the use of the service charge by thirdlevel institutions.

Last week an Economic and Social Research institute (ERSI) study compared the real value of student support grants and found that they have only increased nominally in terms of spending power for students.

They also found that the college grants are now covering as little as a quarter of the cost of higher education.

The grant has not increased over the last two years despite the rising costs to attend third level.

"Overall, it is clear that over time, grant support has been covering fewer students and grant levels have been covering less of the cost of participating in college. Grant payments typically meet between just one-quarter and one-third of average expenditure levels of disadvantaged students," the ESRI report said.

The Union of Students in Ireland president, Peter Mannion, said that, while much of the data has become outdated in the recession, the ESRI report raises important issues. The report highlighted the impact of the changed economic environment on student income, with fewer part-time job opportunities available and parental ability to support their children affected by unemployment and lower pay in many sectors.

On a more positive note the Higher Education Authority (HEA) have updated their website to ensure all students have the information they need before starting third level. There are six parts to the student area including sections on 'opportunities in higher education', 'what to study and where to go', applying for a course and student life. They also have a range of links providing more detailed information on particular topics.

Next week in the college we are running our annual 'Sexual Health Awareness and Guidance' week. During the week we highlight the importance of looking after your sexual health. During the week we will have posters up around the college and also be giving out packs with lots of information regarding sexual health.

So as you can see it's been a busy few weeks for students nationally. It's been good to see that current student issues are being discussed and debated throughout the country. The ever rising costs involved in attending third level are ever increasing and it's about time something is done help equal access to everyone who wants to further their education.

- with Katie Sheehy