Italian Universities Face Crisis: 290 Million Euro Decree and Student Struggles

The COVID-19 pandemic has severely impacted Italy's university system, with 1,721,790 students facing online classes, suspended internships, and financial strain. The Decreto Rilancio, approved on May 13, allocates 290 million euros to universities, including 165 million for student support and 62 million for digital tools. However, student unions like Link argue this is insufficient after a decade of cuts and a 60% average tuition increase. The no-tax area may expand from ISEE 13,000 to 20,000 euros, and the third installment will be reduced for families earning 20,000-30,000 euros. Many students risk losing scholarships due to residency changes. Education Minister Manfredi warns that a predicted 20% drop in enrollments, similar to 2008, would be a bad sign for the country's recovery. Rector Geuna of the University of Turin announced continued distance learning and 62 million for device purchases, but critics fear permanent reliance on remote teaching exacerbates the digital divide and reinforces rote learning.