Sustainable Development Policies

11.4.4

Affordable Housing for University Employees

1. Purpose

The purpose of this Policy is to ensure that employees of the University of Thessaly have access to affordable, adequate, and sustainable housing in proximity to their workplace. This Policy supports staff well-being, equity, and retention, while strengthening the University’s integration into local communities.

2. Scope

This Policy applies to all permanent and fixed-term academic, administrative, and technical employees of the University of Thessaly, including postdoctoral researchers and visiting faculty. It covers housing-related initiatives, partnerships, and benefits that facilitate affordable accommodation options in university cities and regions.

3. Legal and Institutional Context

This Policy aligns with: Law 4485/2017 (Framework for Higher Education); Law 4957/2022 (Higher Education Reform and Campus Infrastructure); Law 4555/2018 (Κλεισθένης I); National Housing Strategy 2022–2030; EU Pillar of Social Rights (Principle 19); and UN SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).

4. Policy Statement

1. The University of Thessaly recognizes affordable housing as an essential component of social and employment welfare.
   2. The University will collaborate with municipal authorities, regional governments, and housing organizations to identify and support housing options for its employees.
   3. The University will explore opportunities to allocate or lease university-owned property for staff housing projects, partner with public housing programs, negotiate preferential rental or mortgage terms, and support short-term accommodation for new or visiting staff.
   4. Housing assistance programs shall prioritize early-career academics, postdoctoral researchers, and junior administrative staff, employees relocating from outside the region, and staff with family or accessibility needs.
   5. The University will ensure non-discrimination and equity in all housing-related initiatives.
   6. Housing support measures will complement existing employee welfare programs.
   7. The University will promote environmentally sustainable housing solutions.
   8. The University shall monitor local housing markets in university cities to identify affordability trends.
   9. Employees shall be informed annually about available housing programs and eligibility criteria.
   10. The University may establish a Housing Support Office within the Directorate of Administrative Affairs to coordinate implementation.

5. Implementation and Responsibilities

– The Rector oversees the implementation.
– The Administrative Office ensures fair access and monitors participation.
– The Public Relations Office disseminates information on available programs.

6. Monitoring and Review

The Housing Support Office shall submit an annual report on staff housing initiatives, collaborations, and participation outcomes. The Policy shall be reviewed every three (3) years or earlier if housing conditions or national legislation change.

7. Related Documents / References

Law 4485/2017 (Higher Education Framework);
Law 4957/2022 (Higher Education Reform);
Law 4555/2018 (Κλεισθένης I);
National Housing Strategy 2022–2030;
EU Pillar of Social Rights (Principle 19);
UN SDG 11.