Action against cuts to higher education on 9 December
On Tuesday 9 December, another nationwide action will take place against the government’s budget cuts to higher education. Earlier actions have had an effect: the cuts planned for 2025 have been softened, but unfortunately not withdrawn. During the coalition formation period, it will be decided whether the cuts will be reversed or implemented.
“The cuts put the future of the Netherlands under pressure,” says Margot van der Starre, Vice President and acting President of Utrecht University. “Investing in knowledge and innovation is essential for societal progress. Those who cut back on knowledge hinder that progress. That is why, during the coalition formation period, we continue to emphasize how important quality education and research are for the Netherlands. And within the context of Universities of the Netherlands (UNL) we advocate for additional investments.”
Impact already noticeable
“We are already feeling the consequences of the cuts,” Van der Starre says. “We no longer fill every vacancy, we are downsizing and simplifying our real estate portfolio, and we have to make choices in our services. It is understandable that colleagues and students are concerned, and we as the Executive Board share those concerns. Although we will not be personally present in Amsterdam on 9 December, we do think it is important that politicians in The Hague see that there is still room to change course.”
Demonstrating during working or teaching hours
For anyone with questions about participating during working and/or teaching hours, there is a guideline on demonstrations, which also applies to this day. The principle at Utrecht University is that essential activities such as inaugural lectures, PhD defenses and exams should be able to proceed.