Following a huge outcry from medical students, the University of Health Sciences agreed yesterday to lower a planned rise in annual tuition for those hoping to pursue a medical specialty beyond their general degree.

Last week, university rector Saphonn Vonthanak announced that students wishing to pursue a two- or four-year specialised diploma would have to pay $3,000 per year instead of the current $1,500 fee.

The announcement also doubled the cost of entrance exams from $25 to $50.

The fee hike, which would have affected nearly 400 students, was reduced from $3,000 to $2,250 after students negotiated with Vonthanak, one student confirmed.

“We asked for $2,000, but the rector disagreed,” said a medical student who wished to remain anonymous.

The students then agreed to accept the rector’s offer of $2,250, he added.

“We ended the strike and waited for the announcement of the new price.”

According to the student, Vonthanak said that the increase was due to a cessation of funding from the government and France.

Health Minister Mam Bunheng refused to provide details, but said that a solution had been found.

“They have settled the problem and the students have agreed to return to school.”