Marche Regional Council approves student rights plan amid housing concerns

The Marche Regional Council has approved the 2026-2029 regional plan for the right to university study, a move met with criticism from opposition groups. While the plan outlines strategies for scholarships, housing, and dining services, opposition members argue it fails to secure the necessary resources to address systemic issues.

In Urbino, a significant housing shortage has been identified. For the 2025/26 period, there are 2,248 applications for accommodation against only 1,287 available spots, leaving 961 students without housing. Although new student residences in the former Hotel Montefeltro and Hotel Piero della Francesca will add 234 beds, officials note that demand in Urbino remains structurally higher than supply. Additionally, scholarship applications in Urbino have risen by approximately 34% compared to the previous year.

Opposition groups rejected a proposal aimed at strengthening the plan, which sought full regional financial coverage for scholarships to prevent a crisis once PNRR funds expire. The rejected measures also included public transport discounts for low-income families, increased psychological support on campuses, and higher quotas for student housing. Critics claim the majority's decision ignores the needs of thousands of students and places additional financial burdens on families.