The Calabria region in southern Italy has approved a financial incentive program for university students. The measure aims to curb the exodus of qualified young people to the north of the country.
The plan is part of the regional "merit-based admission" program. It provides for progressive payments of up to 1.000 euros per month to students at local public universities.
Recipients must meet rigorous academic criteria. These requirements include attendance, passing exams, and maintaining good grades.
Financial support will be provided only to the highest-achieving students. According to the regional council, the payment serves as a supplement to studies and not as a "universal subsidy."
The initiative is expected to come into effect in the next school year, starting in September. The main objective is to combat what is known as "brain drain"motivated by low wages and a lack of skilled jobs."
Roberto Occhiuto, the region's president, publicly defended the proposal. The politician stated that "the youth exodus begins at the university" and that it is necessary to invest in regional development.
Occhiuto emphasized that the goal is "to do everything possible so that our young talents can stay here to study." He sees human capital as a central element for the future of Calabria.
Calabria is one of the poorest areas in Europe, according to Eurostat data. The average annual income is less than 16.000 euros, about half that recorded in Lombardy.
The demographic crisis is also affecting the region. According to the Istat institute, the Calabrian population has declined by 6,4% in the last decade. This is the largest decline among all Italian regions.
The region faces profound structural difficulties and the influence of the criminal organization "Ndrangheta". Recently, the Calabria needed to hire Cuban doctors. to keep hospitals running.
The measure is generating political and social controversy. Critics argue that the financial incentive does not solve underlying problems, such as the lack of infrastructure and career opportunities.
Rosa Ferraro, a representative of the Democratic Party, criticized the initiative. According to the parliamentarian, the plan is insufficient and does not address the "real causes of the regional crisis."
Other critics point out that the lack of an income assessment system may favor wealthier families. The regional government remains committed to the program in an attempt to stabilize the local economy.
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