By Erik Dawson
At 11pm on Friday, January 31, the United Kingdom left the European Union.
Public opinion is more split than ever, with many fearing the worst for the future of the country.
But what are the concerns of De Montfort University students?
A report published by Leicester City Council identified EU-funded university programmes as an area that will be negatively affected by Brexit.
DMU allows students to study abroad throughout the EU thanks to the scheme Erasmus, which is wholly funded by the EU and may soon end.
Third-year design student, Callum Paul, said: “It’s a shame that opportunities like Erasmus might not be available soon, it seemed like a great scheme to be a part of.
“Losing it will let a lot of students down.”
Accounting student, Archie, was more hopeful: “It is a shame Erasmus might be stopped, but I’m sure there will be a replacement scheme put in place.”
The report also highlighted the retention of skilled workers in Leicester as one potential problem from leaving the bloc.
This may affect hospitals, schools and many other services.
Archie said: “It’s worrying that we are going to lose so many doctors, the NHS is already at breaking point and this might be the final straw.”
Brexit may also cause chaos for EU students who want to come and study at DMU.
Before Brexit, EU students were entitled to study in this country as a ‘home student’ meaning they are entitled to the same fees and loan as UK students, however, if this is stopped, they will have to pay the same fees as international students (£14,000).
Former DMU student Paschal Nnedu, who is originally from Italy but moved to England two years before he started university, is worried.
“It’s scary to think people in my position may not be able to afford to come to university in England soon. I think it will affect the multiculturalism of universities hugely.”
