French university leaders, including Benoît Roig of Nîmes Université, demand urgent action and funding to address the crisis in higher education and elevate youth issues in the 2027 election.
University leaders join national call
Benoît Roig, president of Nîmes Université, joined a national initiative on Tuesday, October 20, led by France Universités. Along with 79 other university leaders, he is urging the French government to take urgent action to address the growing challenges facing higher education.Manifesto highlights urgent concerns
The leaders signed a manifesto titled Make Youth a Major National Cause! in which they warn that universities can no longer fulfill their public service missions or uphold the promise of equal opportunities for all. They cite budget cuts, worsening work and study conditions, and rising tensions on campuses as key issues.Financial demands outlined
The signatories are calling for an additional 1 billion euros in funding starting in 2027. This includes 340 million euros to address student precarity, 500 million euros to improve university resources, and 200 million euros to begin campus renovations. A 1 billion euro annual real estate investment program is also proposed starting in 2028.Call for broader societal engagement
Beyond financial requests, the manifesto urges the organization of general assemblies focused on youth issues ahead of the 2027 presidential election. The goal is to ensure young people’s concerns about employment, housing, health, and the environment are central to public debate.Focus on youth voices
The leaders emphasize that young people are expressing their frustrations and desires for the future. They argue that these voices must be heard and addressed in national policy discussions. By supporting this initiative, Roig aims to make youth concerns a central topic in the upcoming election.
