University leaders warn funding gap could force lower student intake

According to the Czech Conference of Rectors and Milan Pospíšil, rector of the University of Chemical Technology, public universities admitted about 6,000 more students this year than the previous one, but the increase in financing does not keep pace. The surge is linked to a demographic peak of strong cohorts finishing secondary school. While the 2027 fiscal year should remain sustainable, rectors warn that the 2028 budget may force institutions to limit new admissions.

Education Minister Robert Plaga, representing ANO, has highlighted the systemic underfunding of higher education and its impact on families. Ministry spokesperson Ondřej Macura said the next budget adds a one-billion-koruna boost to operational funding, yet the total allocation for universities will be marginally below one outlet amount. Rectors also stressed that private universities cannot offset public shortfalls, and that the Czech Republic lags behind EU and OECD averages in tertiary education attainment.