by Maximiliano Crocamo
Interviews: Massimiliano Fedriga, Governor of Friuli Venezia Giulia; Maurizio Carvelli, Founder and CEO of Camplus
In the historic center of Udine, a newly restored cluster of buildings has been converted into student housing, adding 246 beds at a time when demand for university accommodation continues to outpace supply across much of Italy.
The residence, known as “Camplus Udine Manin,” was inaugurated on Monday on Via Manin, during the fifth edition of the National Days on the Right to University Education, an annual initiative focused on access to higher education. Developed through the renovation of four historic properties — Palazzo Contarini, Casa Braida–Caratti, Casa Gori Pividori and Casa Gori Caratti — the project brings 143 rooms to the city center, including 40 singles and 103 doubles. Fourteen rooms have been designed to accommodate students with disabilities.
The development was promoted by REAM SGR S.p.A. on behalf of the Fondo Social & Human Purpose 2, with co-financing from Italy’s Ministry of Universities and Research under a national funding decree. Additional support, according to the developers, came from the European Union’s Next Generation EU program. The restoration was carried out in coordination with regional heritage authorities to ensure compliance with preservation standards.
The residence will be managed by Camplus, which said that 70 of the beds will be reserved for eligible students under an agreement with ARDIS, the regional agency responsible for student support. Criteria for access and allocation are determined by the agency.
Beyond accommodation, the complex includes shared facilities such as study rooms, co-working spaces, a gym and a music room, as well as services including reception and laundry. The building incorporates energy-efficient systems, full electric power use, fiber connectivity and centralized digital management, according to its developers.
Regional officials framed the project as part of a broader strategy to strengthen access to education and make the region more attractive to students. Speaking at the inauguration, Massimiliano Fedriga said the expansion of student housing supports the region’s commitment to guaranteeing financial aid to all eligible students — a policy that local authorities describe as unique within Italy.
Officials also emphasized the need to strengthen connections between universities and the labor market, citing concerns about retaining graduates and attracting talent from outside the region. The regional government has introduced incentives, including financial contributions for workers who relocate, as part of a wider effort to address demographic and economic challenges.
Data presented during the event indicated that ARDIS currently serves more than 33,000 students across Friuli Venezia Giulia. Regional funding for the right to study has increased significantly in recent years, rising from €59 million in 2020 to €148 million in 2025, while more than 6,000 scholarships have been awarded, totaling over €37 million.
For city officials, the project represents not only an expansion of student services but also an example of urban regeneration, returning a block of historic buildings to active use while adapting them to contemporary needs.
