Government announces 50% tuition fee cut amid wider reforms

In a landmark move, Serbia has announced significant reforms to its higher education system, promising a brighter future for both educators and students. These changes, hailed as a victory for teacher unions and student activists, mark a pivotal moment in the country’s educational landscape, reports Education International.

Ana Brnabi, the president of the National Assembly, revealed on 23 February that an agreement had been reached on amendments to the Higher Education Law. These amendments will see a 20% increase in the budget for higher education, amounting to approximately RSD12 billion (€102 million or US$112 million). This boost in funding is set to transform the sector, meeting the demands of both students and educators.

One of the most significant changes is the reduction of tuition fees by 50%. Students will receive a direct refund from the budget, making higher education more accessible to a broader range of social groups. Marina Milenkovic, vice-president of the Teachers Union of Serbia Committee for Higher Education, praised the amendments as a direct result of persistent union efforts.
Full report on the EI site