Graduation ceremonies are important events in a student’s life, marking the end of years of hard work and the beginning of adulthood. However, recent incidents at Canadian University Dubai have sparked a debate about the costs associated with these ceremonies. Some students and parents were left disgruntled after facing ticketing and seating issues that prevented them from witnessing the ceremony. While the university responded by reimbursing fees and organizing a smaller ceremony, the incident has raised questions about the worth of these events.
University websites in the UAE show that graduation ceremony fees can range up to Dh3,000 per student, including guest tickets and photography. Some students find these costs unreasonable, leading them to skip the ceremony altogether. For others, the importance of the milestone event outweighs the expenses. Parents note that while the prices may be steep, the ceremonies are significant traditions that they don’t want to miss out on. Despite complaints about additional charges for attire and photography, families still choose to participate in these events to celebrate their children’s accomplishments.
While some students perceive graduation ceremonies as unnecessary expenses, others view them as opportunities to say goodbye to student life and celebrate achievements with family. The pressure to uphold long-standing traditions and the fear of missing out on a memorable event often drive students to attend despite the costs. Graduation ceremonies hold sentimental value as they mark the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter in life. They provide students with a sense of belonging, accomplishment, and the chance to celebrate their academic achievements with loved ones.
In light of recent incidents at Canadian University Dubai and concerns about escalating costs, students and parents are reconsidering the value of graduation ceremonies. While some find the expenses justified for the meaningful traditions and celebrations they represent, others feel that the high fees are unwarranted. As universities continue to charge substantial amounts for graduation ceremonies, students and families are being forced to weigh the significance of these events against the financial burden they impose. Ultimately, the decision to participate in a graduation ceremony comes down to personal priorities and the perceived value of the experience.
