While representatives of the undergraduate student government work through university bureaucracies, a unique and valuable program remains idle for new enrollment.

Representatives from ASMSU are fighting to reinstate the visual impairment program in the College of Education. The program, which includes deaf blind, visual impairment, and orientation and mobility education, was put on hiatus in June while officials review it.

But the hold on new admissions could be the nail in the coffin for this program. Grant money intended for the visually impaired program is on the line and the university’s decision is detrimental to future funding.

While only 30 students are enrolled in this program - one of only two in the state - these future educators will help give comfort to parents of children with visual, hearing or other disabilities seeking an educational outlet. Its price tag, in the millions, is certainly worth the effort to the people these educators touch.

It is reassuring to see ASMSU stick up for this cause. Yet it’s troubling student leaders have not been able to set a time to meet with administrators about this issue.

There are obviously many factors that have to be evaluated before any decision moves forward about the visually impaired program. But it’s important students be involved every step of the way. This is not a decision MSU officials should make on their own.

It is unfortunate to see a beneficial program and one of the best in the Midwest fall victim to a simple cost-benefit analysis. Students, such as the leaders who have stepped forward from ASMSU, can help prevent that from happening.