Moreover, opposition to tuition increases can hardly be described as idealistic. This is pure self-interest, like opposing a tax hike. The student activists are saying, in effect, let somebody else pay. Education at the University of Hawaii is heavily subsidized. UH has long been considered a bargain compared with universities nationwide because tuition is relatively low.
Aid is available for students from low-income families.
An increase in tuition could, among other things, provide more money for aid to disadvantaged students. This means that tuition revenue goes directly into the support of university operations. In addition to tuition, the university depends heavily on state appropriations, research grants and private donations. Resistance to tuition increases could leave the impression that students are unwilling to do their share to support the institution. This could result in smaller legislative appropriations and gifts.