North Macedonian students demand higher meal subsidies

University student assemblies in North Macedonia are demanding an immediate increase in the subsidized daily meal allowance from 140 to 200 denars, citing drastic rises in food prices. Student leaders argue that the current amount is insufficient to provide even a basic meal, noting that essential food products have increased in price by over 40 percent in the last three years.

Minister of Education and Science Vesna Janevska stated that budgetary constraints limit the increase to 147 denars, a symbolic seven-denar rise based on current inflation calculations. This figure is derived from applying a 5.2 percent inflation rate for food and non-alcoholic beverages to the existing 140-denar subsidy.

Students have reacted sharply to the proposal, calling the seven-denar increase insulting and a disregard for their living standards. They have warned of potential protests and the use of institutional mechanisms if the ministry does not meet their demands, highlighting the added financial pressure caused by rising rent and poor dormitory conditions.