The Conference of Rectors of Polish Universities (KRUP), on the initiative of its Chair and Rector of the University of Gdańsk, prof. Piotr Stepnowski, has adopted a position on the launch of a nationwide programme ensuring that students at Polish universities have consistent access to affordable and nutritious meals. The document has been forwarded to the Prime Minister, the Minister for Science and Higher Education, and the Minister for Family, Labour and Social Policy.

In their statement, the rectors emphasise that the problem of access to affordable meals is a nationwide issue and affects students’ well-being and educational success. They point out that the current financial situation of universities does not allow them to establish and maintain canteens independently, and that the rising operating costs of higher education institutions, coupled with variations in infrastructure, require systemic solutions at the national level. KRUP proposes launching a programme that would enable flexible mechanisms to support the funding of meals - including in the form of subsidies or food vouchers - tailored to the operational realities of individual universities.

‘We have decided that this will not be an appeal directed solely at a single ministry, but a proposal for a government solution. The availability of affordable meals for students is an issue at the intersection of higher education and social policy. It requires the ministries responsible for education and social affairs to work together to develop solutions, as well as to ensure appropriate funding mechanisms. Universities are currently unable to shoulder this task on their own, which is why a sustainable, systemic state programme is needed,’ says the Rector of the University of Gdańsk, prof. Piotr Stepnowski.

This position is the result of a discussion held during a meeting of the University Education Committee of the Council of Rectors of Polish Universities (KRUP), attended by Vice-Rectors responsible for student affairs. The rectors have declared their readiness to cooperate with the government administration in developing and implementing solutions that will increase the availability of nutritious meals for students, without exacerbating the difficult financial situation of Polish universities.