Saudi students in the United States are calling on the government to increase their allowances for child daycare and other expenses. Saudis students with children abroad are currently getting $500 a month for daycare. Khalid Al-Damigh, the Cultural Attaché's assistant for media affairs in the United States, said Mohamed Al-Issa, the Cultural Attaché, has sent the requests to the Ministry of Higher Education. A proposal will be sent to the Shoura Council for their consideration. A decision is expected shortly, he added. Al-Damigh said that the government is concerned about the welfare of students and costly daycare services in America. He said working was not an option for Saudi parents. Mashael K., a student at the University of Florida, who is currently studying for a PhD in mass communication, while her husband is getting his PhD in Entrepreneurship Hospitality, said they are facing tough times. “With three children and no other help, our allowance barely covers our daily expenses. Gas alone in the US is extremely expensive. We decided to stick to one car and limit our driving so that we don't have to fill our tank more than twice a week,” said Mashael. “Filling a six-cylinder car costs $100 to $120 depending on gas prices and commuting is necessary in a large state such as Florida. We have our own savings which we use, and also make some money from small business deals with other Saudis, but nothing more goes into our pockets.” Alia Dendarawy, a single mother studying in Kansas with her father as a guardian, said: “The Saudi Cultural Mission is always there to help us. They have truly been a great support for us. Financing is not in their hands but their recognition alone is appreciated.” Dendarawy, who is currently studying genetic modification in rare species, said her journey was not easy because her daughter was only two years old when King Faisal Specialist Hospital sent her to the US to complete her studies. Her family and the Saudi Cultural Mission helped her. “The Cultural Mission even suggested doctors when my daughter got sick. Unfortunately healthcare is very costly in the US and health insurance isn't part of the scholarship program.” __
