The Government has been asked for assistance to help out the 80 percent of students registering at colleges, tertiary and higher education institutions, who come from rural village backgrounds. The question posed by Manus Governor Charlie Benjamin was put to the Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology and Sport, Don Polye yesterday in Parliament during questions without notice. Governor Benjamin said students and the parents are being asked to pay 70 - 75 percent of the fees upfront before registering to attend classes. He said fees now are between K15-20 000, and this is a challenge to parents, as many cannot afford this. The Governor said while many Members of Parliaments, and provinces and districts do provide assistance, the government accounts has been closed until March, and most provinces have not presented their budgets as yet. He said it is a concern as to how these students will be able to attend school at all in the meantime, suggesting the upfront tuition fees asked can be lowered to at least 10 percent. Minister Polye acknowledged this ongoing concern, and in response, said he had already directed the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST) to provide a brief on the issue. He said the brief will outline how the Government can intervene in these circumstances. Minister Polye said he expects that report today and will make a comprehensive response on the issue.