Spain is delaying making further cuts to Erasmus, a European scheme that allows thousands of students to study abroad.
Two years ago, the Spanish government reduced its contributions and it planned to take additional measures this year. But it is now pushing back the proposal till next year in the face of mounting criticism.
When asked about the apparent U-turn, the government’s spokesman Alfonso Alonso said: “A lot of uncertainty is being created among students that are part of this programme and that had some expectations. I think that we have to listen and be aware of this situation.”
Over the last month, thousands of students have been protesting over wider cutbacks to education.
But Spain’s Education Minister has described her programme as a “concentration” of funds to help the less well-off.
Montserrat Gomendio said: “Students have to understand that they’re only going to miss 40 euros per month. A sacrifice for helping those students that are coming from low income fam
