Prime Minister Edi Rama announced an increase in scholarships for students from economically disadvantaged families by 15,000 new lekë, raising their value to 25,000 lekë per month. Financial support will also extend to master’s-level students. “The scholarship is increased by an extra 15,000 new lekë, so it becomes practically equal to half the minimum wage, 25,000 lekë, and it is also extended to the master’s level,” Rama stated.
The Prime Minister also presented new measures for housing for students and young couples. According to him, the new housing bill, currently in Parliament, provides for government co-financed rentals, as well as loans with 0% or 3% interest, depending on the criteria and legal conditions. Another initiative concerns paid internships. Rama said that a condition will be set for businesses that, according to a defined formula, employ students at half the minimum wage.
Rama also addressed the students who are protesting, inviting them to sit down for dialogue about their demands and the improvement of conditions at universities. He rejected claims that students had not been heard during the months of protest, stating that their demand had been: “There is no dialogue, resign!”.
Referring to the 2018 Pact for the University, the head of government said that around 60% of students receive at least one form of direct support from the state. According to figures he presented, 4,648 students receive scholarships due to their families’ economic situation, while 10,152 students are fully exempt from university fees and the government covers 50% of the fees for another 27,050.
Regarding housing conditions in dormitories, Rama said that an additional 100 million euros for dormitories have been negotiated and approved, aiming to increase capacity and improve their quality. The Prime Minister left open the possibility of revising the Pact for the University, inviting students to become part of the process. ”If you want us to review the Pact and leave your mark for the students after you, come in, with dialogue, humanity and patience. I am”, Rama said.