Calabria university funding increases amid debate over merit-based aid

The university system in Calabria is receiving increased financial support through two distinct channels. Minister of University and Research Anna Maria Bernini has signed a decree allocating over 199.3 million euros to state universities in the region via the Ordinary Financing Fund (Ffo). This represents an increase of 3.5 million euros compared to 2025 and a 22.3% rise compared to 2019 levels.

Separately, the regional government has introduced the ‘Reddito di merito’, a merit-based income program for students funded with 15 million euros for its first year. The program offers monthly allowances of 500, 750, or 1,000 euros. However, the measure has faced criticism from M5S regional councilor Elisa Scutellà, who argues the eligibility criteria are overly restrictive. Scutellà noted that requirements such as high grade point averages, specific graduation timelines for master's students, and high diploma scores may exclude the majority of students, particularly those in demanding STEM fields.