Education Ministry Defends University Law Proposal Amid Criticism

Bratislava, 22 July (TASR) – The Education, Research, Development and Youth Ministry said on Tuesday that it considers the drafting process of the new Higher Education Act to be transparent. The ministry was responding to objections raised by the Council of Higher Education Institutions (RVS), emphasising that many issues have already been discussed with the council's presidium. It assured the academic community that the draft maintains the fundamental principles of academic self-governance, and in some areas, even strengthens university autonomy. "From the beginning RVS has been a member of the ministry’s working group, which has long been engaged in systemic reforms in higher education, including the preparation of the new law. RVS representatives actively participated in working meetings, including those attended by its chairperson," the ministry stated for TASR. The ministry expressed disappointment that during recent discussions, presidium members did not indicate they would later demand the draft's withdrawal. Nevertheless, it remains open to further constructive dialogue. The ministry reminded the public that the draft’s policy framework was submitted for public consultation, allowing experts and the broader public to provide input. Like other stakeholders, RVS had the opportunity to submit proposals and suggestions. In response to the proposal that the election of university rectors remain solely within the competence of academic senates, the ministry warned that such a provision would not comply with the requirements of the Slovak Recovery and Resilience Plan and could result in financial consequences. It claims to have repeatedly highlighted this risk. "We understand that the legislative process may involve differing views. However, we note that several RVS proposals exceed the stated aim of simplifying legal regulations and could, in some cases, increase the legislative burden," said the ministry. It also stressed that the draft law fully aligns with the recommendations of international institutions such as ENQA and EQAR. It includes specific measures to strengthen the independence of the Slovak Accreditation Agency for Higher Education and the involvement of students in its governance. The ministry welcomed the constructive approach of the Student Council for Higher Education and the Slovak Rectors Conference, which, it said, provide substantive feedback and concrete suggestions for improvement. "The draft is currently undergoing interdepartmental review. We believe the final version will reflect expert dialogue and a shared effort to improve the higher education environment in Slovakia," the ministry added. RVS is calling for the proposal's withdrawal. It views the draft as legislatively unprepared, lacking in quality, and a threat to academic self-governance. It criticised the weakening of academic senate powers and warned of the potential politicisation of universities. The council also argued that the draft would increase the administrative burden and jeopardise the acceptance of Slovak higher education within the European Higher Education Area. mf/df