Chilean University Leaders Reject 2027 Education Budget Cuts

Chilean university rectors appeared before the Joint Budget Subcommittee on Wednesday to oppose the government's 2027 education budget proposal. Leaders from the Consortium of State Universities (CUECH), the Council of Rectors (CRUCH), and the G9 network argued the plan cuts vital funding for public institutions.

CUECH reported a combined reduction of over $102 billion pesos from 2026 adjustments and the 2027 proposal, plus a projected $50.5 billion loss due to inflation outpacing the 2.88% reajuste. The Strengthening Program for Public Universities faces a 10% cut, while the Institutional Contribution to State Universities drops 12.2%.

“The state cannot renounce responsibility for its own institutions nor mortgage their future, forcing them to finance development through debt or postponing essential functions.”

University of Chile Rector Alejandra Mizala warned that science funding cuts compound education reductions, leaving no margin to protect research or student training. She highlighted impacts on the university and the DEMRE admissions body.

Catholic University Rector Juan Carlos de la Llera sent a letter to Congress urging rejection of the higher education item. He noted Direct Fiscal Contributions fall 3% to $306.7 billion, while total institutional contributions drop 4.9% to $476.2 billion. He argued universities need $515.6 billion just to maintain 2026 operations.

CUECH Rector Solange Tenorio rejected any budget logic that further precarizes public universities. She warned the state cannot abandon its institutions or force them into debt. The PACE access program for vulnerable students faces cuts, and the ADAIN national interest fund has been eliminated entirely.

The Fourth Mixed Subcommittee rejected the government's higher education proposal following the presentations. The budget debate continues in Congress.