2.3.2
Student Hunger Interventions Policy
The University of Thessaly (UTh) recognizes that student hunger and inadequate nutrition represent serious barriers to learning, wellbeing, and academic performance. As part of its commitment to social responsibility and equal opportunity, the University implements systematic interventions to prevent and alleviate hunger among students through direct food provision, support programmes, and partnerships with local and national organizations.
In accordance with Ministerial Decree 112684/Ζ1/21-09-2022, which defines the official daily meal subsidy for higher education students at €3.50 per student, and under the Joint Ministerial Decision Φ5/68535/Β3/18-06-2012 (ΦΕΚ 1965/Β’/2012) governing eligibility and procedures for free student meals, the University of Thessaly operates an integrated Student Hunger Intervention Programme.
The programme is implemented through legally binding multi-year catering contracts, such as the 2024–2026 agreement (Contract No. 5835/24/ΓΠ2, 27 March 2024) between the University and a certified provider, ensuring continuous, quality-controlled meal service to eligible students across all campuses.
The programme’s primary objectives are to:
Guarantee daily access to nutritious meals for all eligible students through university dining facilities or approved partners;
Extend meal availability to all days of the week, including weekends and holidays, to ensure uninterrupted nutritional support;
Provide breakfast, lunch, and dinner prepared under strict hygiene and HACCP standards, verified by university and state health inspectors;
Deploy additional interventions, such as emergency meal vouchers, community food pantry partnerships, and redistribution of surplus food;
Maintain oversight and transparency through the Directorate of Student Welfare and the Quality Assurance Unit (MODIP), which monitor participation, satisfaction, and compliance with food safety and contractual standards.
Financial support is drawn from the University’s budget line ΚΑΕ 2631, supplemented by any additional state appropriations, ensuring continuity of services. Where state funds are insufficient, priority access is granted according to the criteria established by the Joint Ministerial Decision Φ5/68535/Β3/18-06-2012, and the University may extend assistance using available reserves.
The Rector oversees the implementation of this policy. The Student Welfare Officer coordinates the identification of food-insecure students and manages interventions in collaboration with external partners, local authorities, and charitable organizations.
The Student Hunger Interventions Policy forms part of the University’s broader social responsibility and inclusion strategy and contributes directly to SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).
Through these interventions, the University of Thessaly reaffirms its mission to ensure that every student can pursue academic success free from hunger and food insecurity.