University Sector Workers Sound Alarm Over New National Landscape Under Kast Administration

Original article: Trabajadores del sector universitario se declaran en alerta frente al nuevo escenario nacional

On March 30 and 31, over 50 leaders from various universities across the country gathered at the Federico Santa María Technical University in Valparaíso to outline a strategic plan addressing the challenges facing the university sector in 2026.

The meeting was organized by the executive committee of the National Coordinator of Higher Education Workers in Chile (Conatuch) and the Union No. 5 of Federico Santa María University.

During the session, union and association leaders discussed the current conditions of their institutions and expressed concerns regarding the incoming government led by Kast, which is promoting a narrative of fiscal tightening and cuts to tuition-free education, a move they believe will have significant implications for university communities.

«For the first time, this national coordination space brings together representatives from traditional, state, and private universities, resulting in effective solidarity for the various struggles that unions and associations face at their institutions, as well as in external matters with the Executive and government authorities,» stated Conatuch representatives.

Funding for Higher Education

One of the central themes discussed during the meeting was the government’s announcements aimed at limiting higher education funding, as it is deemed a secondary priority.

«This could lead to increased job insecurity, affecting employment stability and shifting a substantial portion of educational costs onto families,» noted the workers.

Additionally, the withdrawal by the Ministry of Education of Supreme Decree No. 212 was addressed, which allowed alterations to baseline funding for state-funded universities.

This amendment was intended to provide a bonus through the 2025 Budget Law, aimed at compensating workers who had been excluded from benefits since the public sector readjustment in 2020.

Moreover, the organization expressed serious concerns about the government’s announcements, stating that they could critically impact the quality of life for higher education workers and their families. Consequently, a unanimous vote declared a state of alert, leading to a series of actions that will be implemented during this time.

«In addition, it was agreed to establish collaborations with other worker sectors to develop a broad strategy addressing the Executive’s initiatives. Therefore, a joint effort will be encouraged with the Confederation of Students of Chile to promote coordinated actions and advance the strengthening of a public higher education system that is quality-oriented, inclusive, and adequately funded,» detailed Conatuch.

Finally, the organization expressed its willingness to engage in dialogue and pursue agreements, while maintaining its state of alert regarding measures that may significantly impact the quality of life for university sector workers. Read the public statement from the gathering below:

El Ciudadano