University Education Is Becoming a Privilege

On 24 September, the University of Tartu Student Union, in cooperation with the Federation of Estonian Student Unions and other higher education institutions in Tartu, organised the protest called “Läbipõlev Eesti tulevik” (“Burned-Out Future of Estonia”) in front of the Ministry of Education and Research. More than 400 students participated throughout the day.

The students gathered in the park beside the monument of Peeter Põld to stand up for those who are unable to attend university because they cannot afford it financially, for those who must work at night in order to study during the day, and for those who have had to take academic leave due to burnout.

The purpose of the protest was to draw attention to the fact that financial support for students' livelihoods is insufficient and that state support for higher education lacks consistency. As a result, support measures have not kept pace with the current economic situation.

The protest was very lively and featured an active programme. Students from various higher education institutions in Tartu attended, and their representatives delivered speeches. High school students also spoke. There was a raffle wheel, chants were heard throughout the event, and the band Error of Principle performed. In addition, the University of Tartu Student Union provided instant noodles for students.

The students participating in the protest were asked three questions. Their responses, as well as messages from the organisers, are presented below.

Why are you here today?

“I see the joy disappearing from their eyes, and it is heartbreaking that they have to choose between a good, fulfilling life and education. That is not a choice anyone should have to make at all.”

One student participating in the protest said that one reason for attending was to eat noodles. In their opinion, it was wonderful that free food was being offered, as not everyone is privileged enough to have a hot meal every day.

Another participant said that they themselves were doing very well because their parents were able to support them financially, meaning they did not have to work or worry about having enough money for food. They emphasised: “Working alongside one's studies should not be the norm; it should be the exception.”

A third participant said that among their friends and close acquaintances, they had seen some of the most talented and intelligent people destroying their well-being because they lacked the resources needed to devote themselves fully to studying. “I see the joy disappearing from their eyes, and it is heartbreaking that they have to choose between a good, fulfilling life and education. That is not a choice anyone should have to make at all.”

Representing the Federation of Estonian Student Unions, Ronja Ansmann explained why students are facing difficult circumstances: “62% of students work during the semester. Half of all students would not be able to afford higher education if they did not work. The current need-based study allowance system is based on a framework established in 2013. Under this system, household income per family member may be up to 756 euros. That figure reflects the relative poverty threshold from four years ago. Unfortunately, students do not receive support during the summer months, and we are told: “Instead, you can complete an unpaid internship. And then we recommend applying for need-based special allowance.” But that amounts to only 135 euros per month! Furthermore, this option is available only to those who have not previously received support.”

What Does Estonia's Future Mean to You?

"Estonia's future should be one in which students can navigate these changes comfortably and feel that they have a support network and a safety net, even if their parents are unable to provide one.”

According to one student, Estonia's future is becoming increasingly bleak, and society is being affected by a situation in which there are more people with only secondary education than people with higher education qualifications. “We don't have enough specialists. For example, you cannot become a doctor without higher education. And already today we have a shortage of doctors, psychiatrists, and teachers,” they noted.

Another participant explained that students are often advised to live with their parents while pursuing higher education. However, some students come from places such as Hiiumaa and do not have that option: “They move to another city and go through enormous changes in pursuit of higher education. Estonia's future should be one in which students can navigate these changes comfortably and feel that they have a support network and a safety net, even if their parents are unable to provide one.”

Anette Aavekukk, a representative of the Estonian University of Life Sciences, stressed in her speech: “According to the EUROSTUDENT9 study, 51% of students believe they must work in order to study. The problem is not that students struggle with budgeting; the problem lies in a flawed system that has failed to keep up with the rising cost of living.”

Do You Feel That Students' Voices Are Being Heard?

"The solution should not be getting married simply to qualify for young-family support.”

According to one participant, student welfare is discussed frequently, but when it comes to taking action, nothing happens.

Another participant felt that the government assumes students are managing just fine. “That is exactly why we are here today. If we were being heard, we would not be standing here. We are advised to apply for scholarships, but none are available in our field. The solution should not be getting married simply to qualify for young-family support,” they said.

In her speech, Eneken Riin Salong, President of Student Body, stressed the importance of creating a support system that genuinely helps those who need it: “A system that is indexed, because food prices, rent, and utility costs do not stand still even when the state chooses to. A system that takes students' real circumstances into account, because students do not live inside a Tax and Customs Board spreadsheet. A system that reaches young people who need help and truly supports them. And a system that gives students the opportunity to be students first and foremost.”

As one participant in the protest remarked, higher education is becoming a privilege: “We must not let this happen. We must not let students burn out.”