VSS opposes irresponsible cost-cutting measures in the education sector

29.01.2025

The Association of Swiss Student Bodies is disconcerted by the Federal Council’s “2027 relief package” proposal. By doubling tuition fees, the Federal Council is calling equal opportunities in Switzerland into question. Together with its 150,000 members, the VSS will do everything in its power to oppose austerity measures in the education sector. To this end, it is launching a petition and a nationwide poster campaign.

Short-sighted decisions that diminish the attractiveness of Switzerland as a location for education and equal opportunities. Such increases only marginally increase income and in no way solve the financial problems of the universities. It is a symbolic policy that is being placed on the shoulders of the students, who cannot bear such an austerity program on their shoulders.

Furthermore, this increase places an additional burden on the student body, 60% of whom already suffer from financial problems according to the FSO. Without affordable tuition fees, it will be even more difficult for this group to complete a university education. The other cost-cutting measures in the ERI sector also pose a threat to study conditions, the quality of teaching and the internationalization of Swiss education.

Under the title: “STUDY BRIDGES VERDOPPLE? SCHLIIFTS?!” the VSS is launching a petition (https://bezahlbar-studieren.ch/) and will mobilize with a day of action throughout Switzerland.

The following measures affect students directly:

• Strengthening user financing in the ETH Domain + cantonal universities: 198 million
• Waiver of project-related contributions to cantonal universities: 78 million
• 10% cut in subsidies for extracurricular activities for children and young people: 2.4–15.9 million Swiss francs
• Strengthening user financing in the area of international mobility education – CHF 6.9 million

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