Members of the student party Vaka, who comprise a majority of the University of Iceland Student Council, passed a motion of no confidence on university rector Silja Bára Ómarsdóttir, RÚV reports.
Among the reasons the students list is the rector’s irresponsibility in increasing tuition fees and a question of its legitimacy.
In early February, the University Council approved a 25.000 ISK increase on tuition fees — the first increase in 12 years — raising them from 75.000 to 100.000 ISK. Two University Council members voted against the bill, those being student representatives.
“It is unacceptable that the rector of the University of Iceland supports the increase of tuition fees, thereby suggesting that students are responsible for the financing of the university instead of the government,” Vaka’s statement reads.
Vaka calls for repealing the impending increase and identifying new ways for funding.
The motion will be discussed on the Student Council’s next meeting at 17:30, February 24.
Rector wants collaboration with students
Responding to Vaka’s concerns, Silja Bára sent out a statement on February 23. In the announcement, Silja claims sympathy for students’ concerns and iterates that the government is solely responsible for the university’s funding.
Furthermore, Silja points out that the increased tuition fee is insufficient in comparison to the actual service cost needed per student, which is 180.049 ISK according to the 2024 estimations.
Finally, Silja emphasises her will to collaborate with the student movement in order to have an impactful dialogue with the government.
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