Lisbon's Shift from Public to Private Student Housing Sparks Controversy

The promise of a public university residence in the former Ministry of Education building on Avenida 5 de Outubro in Lisbon dates back to the previous PS government. Despite initial plans under the National Plan for Higher Education Accommodation (PNAES), little progress was made. The project, initially set to provide 600 beds, saw Carlos Moedas, now Mayor of Lisbon, reduce the number by 150 beds and later push for its cancellation, citing delays and insufficient funds from the Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR).

Filipa Roseta, Councillor for Municipal Works, defended the decision, stating the project wouldn't be ready in time for PRR funding. The cancellation led to public outcry, especially after it was revealed that Moedas advised the Minister of Education to abandon the project.

In a surprising turn, João Ferreira, a communist councillor, exposed plans for a private university residence on the same avenue. The proposal, set for discussion in the upcoming municipal meeting, has raised eyebrows, especially as Moedas has been inaugurating private residences and advocating for public-private partnerships, while public funds are diverted to private events with little public benefit.