If an active member of the Rhode Island national guard is killed or dies while in the performance of his or her duty as a member, there shall be paid out of the general fund of the state of Rhode Island the charges for the tuition of children of the deceased member and/or the spouse of the member killed in the line of duty. The benefits are extended to the children and/or spouse who are attending or may attend the University of Rhode Island, Rhode Island College, or any other college or university operated by the state; provided, that the child has entered the institution while between the ages of sixteen (16) and twenty-one (21); and provided, further, that the aid granted is available to the child and/or spouse for the period of time that may equal the normal time for completing the courses regularly offered by the institution, but in no case more than four (4) years.