The FHK takes note of today's announcements by the Minister of Finance regarding budgetary adjustments in the science sector with concern, but also with a clear appeal to the joint responsibility for the future of Austria as a business location.
It is understandable that public budgets need to be consolidated, especially in times of economic hardship. Nevertheless, it is important to treat with caution those areas that are crucial for innovative strength, competitiveness and social cohesion in the medium and long term - and this includes the science and higher education sector in particular. Experience shows that savings in science have rarely had a positive effect on social development.

The 42 million euros in special funding for the universities of applied sciences promised in the last development and funding plan (E&F plan) was agreed as a targeted measure to secure key further developments. The fact that only 14 million euros of this is now to be disbursed poses enormous challenges for the universities of applied sciences. "These 14 million euros must therefore be released immediately and unbureaucratically in order to close acute gaps and ensure that operations remain at a high level," demands FHK Secretary General Kurt Koleznik.

At the same time, the UAS Conference appeals to the federal government to swiftly implement all measures agreed in the government programme that do not require additional budgetary resources, including the introduction of doctoral degree programmes, the abolition of initial accreditation as well as a long overdue reduction in bureaucracy, the rapid development of a new E&F plan and the strengthening of autonomy in the management of study places - especially where structural developments, legal adjustments and access to research are concerned. Progress can be made here that will not result in additional expenditure but will significantly strengthen the location.

The universities of applied sciences remain a reliable partner in academic education, research and regional development. Especially now, constructive cooperation, planning security and the willingness to make courageous and forward-looking decisions even under difficult conditions are needed.