The unifr does not mean an increase in taxes at the moment

Fewer means, but no less ambition. The University of Friborg is forced to adjust its financial trajectory for the years to come. The Canton’s sanitation plan – its main source of financing – provides for a gradual reduction in support allocated to the institution: 500,000 francs less in 2026, then 1 million less in 2027 and 2028, or 2.5 million francs in total.

To this could be added a drop in federal contributions, still uncertain. For Katharina Fromm, rector of the university, these announcements make a major challenge. “It’s very difficult to plan something if you always have this sword of damocles over your head,” she says.

However, the institution does not give up and prepares a new multi -year planning. Each faculty has been asked to offer economy tracks. Rigorous management is essential, but it will not be sufficient: the university is considering other sources of funding.

Opening to private funds

The UNIFR could open up more to the economic world. “Private partnerships are interesting to strengthen certain strengths that we already have,” says Katharina Fromm. The idea: to seduce businesses ready to invest in strategic fields or in infrastructure, such as buildings.

This approach has already aroused debates on academic independence. For example, the partnership with the Holcim company had reacted to the political spheres.

Despite the budgetary restrictions, university taxes will not be increased at the start of the next school year, a decision confirmed by the rector. A decision that could be questioned if the Confederation in turn reduces its contribution.

The UNIFR employs around 2,500 people for a total of around 10,000 students. Its 2024 budget amounted to around 250 million francs. The canton of Friborg (via net load) is by far the main contributor to the budget, with almost half of the budget. The Confederation finances around 19% of the budget.

Sacrifices in other educational sectors

If university students escape an increase in costs, this is not the case for all young Friborgers. The cantonal government proposes to increase college school fees, from 375 to 400 francs per year. In parallel, he plans to remove the encouragement bonuses for students from the School of Trades and Eikon, generating an economy estimated at 260,000 francs over three years.