Government proposes 2.3 billion kroner budget for University of Southeast Norway in 2025

The proposed budget for 2025 outlines a contribution of 2.3 billion Norwegian kroner to the University of Southeast Norway (USN), maintaining levels from the previous budget. Despite some positive developments, USN’s rector, Pia Cecilie Bing-Jonsson, notes a lack of significant surprises and mentions anticipated cuts within the sector.

The budget includes allocations for new study programs, granting USN 15 additional spots in ICT and 10 for place-based kindergarten teacher education. It remains undecided which of USN’s campuses will receive these new positions. Furthermore, funding will be provided for a four-year practical arts teacher education program at Notodden (with 25 spots) and a second year of a bachelor’s program in folk dancing at Rauland (10 spots).

The government intends to increase the budget for flexible and decentralized education by 120 million kroner, which will benefit USN through additional study spots for new intakes in Gol, Hallingdal. This funding shift from application-based schemes aims to enhance educational access in regions with limited higher education infrastructure.

However, Bing-Jonsson expresses concerns about the worsening conditions for students. Many are financially stretched, balancing jobs alongside their studies. Recent surveys raise alarms about students’ mental health, and she suggests that improving their economic situation could alleviate some daily stressors. The proposed budget includes a 2.9% increase in student loan payouts, which is expected to fall short of projected inflation, resulting in less financial flexibility for students in the coming years. No changes to housing subsidy rates for student accommodations were suggested, potentially limiting the capacity for new student housing development.