TIRANA, Oct 29 /ATA/ Prime Minister Edi Rama renewed his call today for protesting students and faculty members to sit down for talks. He emphasized the government’s willingness to review their proposals and address their concerns, even sharing a social media video of a stone table inscribed with the word “Dialogue.”
However, protesters have so far rejected the offer, insisting on the Prime Minister’s resignation and vowing to continue their demonstrations. Rama reiterated his readiness to evaluate any student or faculty proposal, following a speech the previous day on national economic development where he directly addressed the student body.
According to his statement, financial aid for students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds will see an increase of 15,000 lek. Furthermore, pending housing legislation includes provisions to assist students and young families through joint government-rent subsidies and low-interest loans ranging from 0% to 3%, depending on statutory eligibility requirements.
The Prime Minister also announced new measures for student internships and jobs, introducing a system that requires businesses to hire students at 50% of the minimum wage based on a set formula. Additionally, he stressed that no one can intimidate or force the state’s hand through violence or by hiding behind student identities.
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