Ministers take action after survey shows almost half of students had gone without food for financial reasons
French universities have begun offering €1 (86p) meals to all students regardless of income in a measure designed to address financial hardship.
Student unions have been pushing to extend the €1 rate – down from the usual €3.30 – for a three-course meal to all students, which was previously only available to those with low incomes or receiving financial aid.
For Alexandre Ioannides, an 18-year-old student in Paris, the measure will drastically cut his monthly canteen expenses.
“I come here 20 times a month. That’s about €60. Whereas now, I’ll pay €20,” he said, adding the savings would go towards “going out or eating at a restaurant”.
