In a significant step towards enhancing educational opportunities, the Second Commission of the Sardinian Regional Council has unanimously approved a new initiative aimed at providing increased financial assistance for university students. Under the leadership of Chairperson Camilla Soru, this decision supports students facing economic challenges while
pursuing higher education both on the island and in mainland Italy.
The initiative, detailed in deliberation number 57/28, is a direct response to the financial pressures many students encounter, particularly concerning housing costs. With a total budget of approximately €4.9 million, the policy aims to elevate the annual rental contribution for each eligible student from €2,500 to €3,000. This increase seeks to alleviate some of the financial strain associated with renting accommodations during their
studies.
Details of the new funding initiative
During the commission meeting, Ilaria Portas, the Regional Minister for Public Education, elaborated on the legislative framework that has facilitated this increase. Following the passage of a regional law in December of the previous year, the commission’s recent approval marks a crucial advancement in promoting student welfare. Specifically, the new funding parameters are designed to assist students enrolled in both Sardinian universities
and those studying in other regions of Italy.
Submission timelines and funding allocation
Students will be able to apply for this assistance starting in December for those attending universities outside of Sardinia. For students attending institutions within the island, application processes will open in early 2026. This staggered approach ensures that all students have the opportunity to secure the necessary funds to support their housing needs.
Moreover, the new regulations stipulate that any unallocated funds from the academic years 2025/2026 and 2026/2027 will remain available to the University Study Rights Agencies (Ersu) located in Cagliari and Sassari. This provision allows for a more streamlined allocation of resources, enabling these agencies to offer additional support through the ‘fitto casa’ program for the 2025/2026 academic year.
The broader implications of the initiative
This initiative is part of a larger strategy to enhance the rights to education and financial support for university students in Sardinia. As many young individuals grapple with economic uncertainties, the increase in rental contributions serves as a pivotal measure to improve access to higher education. Minister Portas emphasized that this policy not only addresses the financial burdens associated with housing but also promotes the retention of Sardinian students within local universities.
Encouraging educational enrollment and local growth
Furthermore, the approval of this funding could motivate more students to enroll in university programs, ultimately leading to a more skilled workforce in the region. Sardinia’s future prosperity relies on investing in education, which in turn creates better job opportunities and mitigates the issue of population decline. By ensuring that students can afford to pursue their studies, the regional council is taking significant steps towards fostering long-term growth and development.
The unanimous support from the Second Commission reflects a decisive response to the challenges faced by Sardinian students. This initiative is just one of many efforts undertaken by the regional government to uphold the principle of educational accessibility and improve the overall living conditions for young people in Sardinia.