Dutch universities find budget cuts "incomprehensible"; €325 million could be slashed

Universities fear they will receive another 25 million euros less from the government, on top of the previously announced annual cuts of 300 million euros. “It is incomprehensible that this cabinet continues to cut back on knowledge and innovation, when these are essential to keeping our country safe, resilient, and healthy,” said Caspar van den Berg, chairman of the umbrella organization Universities of the Netherlands, in response to the budget memorandum.

The universities’ umbrella organization reports that universities are in the process of reorganizing to cut costs. Research projects are being halted, and some programs are being discontinued. “The expectation is that this troubling development will continue next year,” said the Universities of the Netherlands.

According to the universities, 2.6 billion euros, or 3 percent of the budget, is needed for higher education to drive economic development. That goal is slipping out of reach due to the cutbacks, the organization said.

Universities of applied sciences also fear future cuts. “The budget memorandum is once again bringing reductions to universities of applied sciences. Given today’s and tomorrow’s labor market, now is precisely the time to invest in higher professional education,” said Maurice Limmen, chairman of the Association of Universities of Applied Sciences (VH).

According to the association, it is important for the economy that people learn new skills and continue to develop, especially with the rise of artificial intelligence. “Universities of applied sciences are essential in helping people in the Netherlands with this,” said the VH.