MEP THOMAS BAJADA URGES STRONGER EU-UK COOPERATION TO SUPPORT STUDENTS AFTER BREXIT

Thomas Bajada has urged stronger cooperation between the European Union and the United Kingdom to ensure young Europeans are not priced out of education opportunities following Brexit.

Speaking before the European Parliament, the Gozitan MEP highlighted how Brexit has effectively “put a price tag” on young people’s futures, particularly when it comes to accessing higher education in the UK. Once considered a natural destination for Maltese students, rising tuition fees have made studying in British universities increasingly inaccessible.

Bajada stressed that while the UK’s planned return to Erasmus+ in 2027 is a positive development, more concrete action is needed. “Real partnership must mean more than symbolism,” he argued, calling for lower costs, improved mobility, and genuine opportunities for students across Europe.

Drawing from personal experience, Bajada noted his years spent living, studying, and working alongside British people, emphasising the strong cultural and social ties that continue to exist between the UK and EU citizens.

He reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for reduced tuition fees, insisting that studying in the UK should not become “a luxury for the few,” but remain an accessible opportunity for young people in Malta and across Europe.

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