Joint Statement

The budget for public Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) published at the end of August is unfortunately completely unacceptable, as it does not take into account the priorities declared in previous years by the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports (MEYS), which were for example to manage the demographic increase in the grades currently heading to HEIs or to strengthen socially highly necessary professions.

For 2026, it is essential to support the increase in funds for educational activities at public HEIs by CZK 6 billion proposed by the MEYS. Similarly, in the field of science and research, an increase in the Long-term Conceptual Development of a Research Organization (DKRVO) chapter by at least 15% will enable the necessary development and ensure competitiveness in the European context.

Only a sufficiently pro-growth budget can guarantee the development of activities at public HEIs and thus support the knowledge economy and prosperity of our society. The current proposal will mean, on the contrary, a decrease in the share of the budget of public HEIs in GDP, which will further distance the Czech Republic from the average of OECD countries.

Prague, 4 September 2025