After revelations of the high fees received by some individuals in the higher education sector, the University of Ljubljana, which employs more than 5.600 people, has decided to present its finances.

The university is primarily funded by public funds, which it receives mostly from the Ministry of Education. However Chancellor Svetlik confirmed that those funds are not enough. In order to preserve the quality of education, the university has had to acquire additional non-budgetary funds. Last year they amounted to 68 million euros.

Svetlik also stressed the difference between higher education professors on one side, and primary and secondary education teachers on the other. Those teaching in primary and secondary schools already have a teaching program, while universities have to create such programs on their own, explained Svetlik.

Apart from that, those teaching in the higher education sector have to continually improve their knowledge. Therefore additional funds are needed, both from the state budget as well as EU funds. And according to Svetlik there is great competition for those funds. To be awarded European funds demands great scientific contribution. That is why the so-called elite - those that do get the funds, also have the necessary qualifications.

Other funding sources for the university members are part-time studies, various development projects, offering counseling services to companies and other organizations. Part-time studies are in decline and the state has almost stopped financing PhD studies. Svetlik said that to acquire funds from companies efforts are required. The funds that its members to get at the end are theirs, and they decide on their own how to spend them, added Svetlik.

B. V., MMC;
translated by K. J.