The platforms representing the six public universities of Madrid have announced two days of strike action at the end of November – Wednesday the 26th and Thursday the 27th. This is in response to the draft budget for the community of Madrid for 2026, which they deem a “stagnant budget” and a continuation of “strong underfinancing,” rather than a genuine increase in funding. They argue the proposed budget does not represent a real rise in investment for higher education.”We cannot even talk about an ‘increase’, but rather we find ourselves with a stagnant budget, and in the context of the strong underfinancing that we have been denouncing,” the statement underlines.
The six platforms of Madrid’s public universities (complutense, Rey Juan Carlos, Carlos III, Autónoma, Politécnica and Alcalá de Henares) consider that “the suffocation remains basically the same” and, with this, the reasons for calling a strike for at least two days at the end of November, initially on the 26th and 27th. Though, the 0.44% to 0.46% of the regional GDP.
The “assault” on the public university of Ayuso: gives control of the accounts to former PP officials and businessmen
The Community of Madrid, led by isabel Díaz Ayuso, is facing criticism for recent changes in the management of its public universities.A new directive grants control of university accounts to individuals with ties to the Popular Party (PP) and the business world, sparking concerns about potential conflicts of interest and a weakening of public education.
The decision,published in the Official Gazette of the Community of Madrid,allows university presidents to delegate financial powers – previously held by university officials – to external figures. These figures include former PP officials and businessmen with no prior experience in university administration.
Critics argue this move represents an “assault” on the autonomy of public universities, effectively handing control of their budgets to individuals loyal to the governing party and their allies. They fear this will lead to a prioritization of political and business interests over academic and research needs.
Specifically, the new directive allows for the appointment of “financial delegates” who can authorize expenses, manage budgets, and oversee financial reporting. While proponents claim this will streamline financial processes and improve efficiency,opponents point to the lack of clarity and the potential for misuse of funds.
The Spanish Federation of Students (FEES) has condemned the decision, calling it a “step backwards” for public education and a “clear attempt to control universities.” They have announced plans for protests and legal challenges.
The move comes amidst ongoing tensions between the regional government and university authorities over funding and autonomy. Ayuso’s government has been accused of underfunding public universities while together promoting private education. This latest decision is seen by many as a further attempt to exert control over the public university system and align it with the government’s political agenda.
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