Growing up an orphan is the most frustrating experience that no one would wish their children to undergo. However, you’re not alone and you should stand strong and forge ahead against all orphanage related tribulations to succeed in life. Your uncle seems overwhelmed with the increasing family responsibilities or he doesn’t see your hard work in school hence wants to withdraw his efforts in supporting your education.

Therefore, your loyalty and determination with studies should be your weapon to win his heart so he stops seeing you as a burden. Perhaps, your academic performance has deteriorated and he sees no clear academic future in you. By threatening to stop paying your school fees; he simply wants you to behave well, work hard and excel in academics.

First, check your own behaviour and increase lines of communication with your uncle on a daily basis. Approach him during his happy moods and appreciate all what he does for you and explain the significance of continuing with school. You can even use some trusted family relatives to strengthen your approach. Make the most of your relationship and fortify the bond with your uncle.

As for his marriage suggestion, your uncle should be sensitised that marriage is sacred and essential to any one only at the right time and with the right person. The right time is determined by several factors that include individual’s readiness in terms of physical, mental, academic and financial maturity.  You haven’t yet attained this maturity and that you still have plenty of time to achieve this milestone. In today’s job market, not having a qualification can be a horrifying roadblock to many careers opportunities that would otherwise guarantee you a cheerful future life.

If your uncle gets persistent to the idea of withdrawing from supporting your education, apply for a scholarship or bursary.  Students, who can demonstrate an excellent academic aptitude as well as serious financial hardship just like your situation, may apply for a bursary that covers the tuition fees just to help you put together the funding package you need. There are also students loans and grants that the government has put in place specifically to assist students from low-income backgrounds. Alternatively, you can get a part-time job and pursue your studies through weekend or evening program. This will help you to become fully self-sufficient and prepare you for post university career world.  Stay focused on achieving your career goal to avoid the misery of living a dependant life in future.