Students at the University of Cyprus have money problems. They are asking the government for more financial help. This has started a big talk. People are asking how much the government should pay for university. Students worry about the rising costs. They say it is hard to pay for living. Their families also have money worries. Students want lower rent and bigger grants. They also want back money for student welfare programs.
The students' money problems started after past government decisions. In 2013, the country had a big money crisis. The government cut money for student support. This was because of bad spending by the old government. This decision still affects students today. Students want back half of the old money. They say this money is important for students who need help.
The cost of living is also going up. This makes money problems worse. Rent for a small apartment can be €500 each month. There are not many cheap places to live. The University of Cyprus has few dorm rooms. So, many students must find private housing. One student said they spend €1,200 each month. This is without books and study materials. Students must choose between studying or living.
The Social Support Body is also part of the talk. This group helps students with money. Its spending was about €500,000 each year until 2022. But now, it spends about €2.5 million. This is five times more. The Audit Service is watching this. Some people worry the Body is doing the government's job. It might be filling gaps in public policy.