President Obama is set to announce a new program on Wednesday that the White House says will help lower interest rates on student-loans. He will unveil the proposal during an appearance in Colorado. The plan will allow students who hold both government and private loans to consolidate both into one low-interest government loan. The announcement comes as the president continues to highlight ways his administration can boost the economy through executive actions that don’t require approval from Congress. Obama has expressed frustration with lawmakers, who have held up his jobs plan on Capital Hill. Anya Kamenetz is author of “DIY U” and a senior writer for Fast Company magazine. She’s written “The EduPunks’ Guide to a DIY Credential,” a free book published in conjunction with the Gates Foundation that “comprehensive guide to learning online and charting a personalized path to an affordable credential.” She talks about the benefits and shortcomings of the president’s plan.
The World is an independent newsroom. We’re not funded by billionaires; instead, we rely on readers and listeners like you. As a listener, you’re a crucial part of our team and our global community. Your support is vital to running our nonprofit newsroom, and we can’t do this work without you. Will you support The World with a gift today? Donations made between now and Dec. 31 will be matched 1:1. Thanks for investing in our work!