CHF 25 million cut for USI and SUPSI: what changes for cross-border workers

Contesto

The Ticino Cantonal Government has approved a savings package worth 25 million francs to finance the two health insurance initiatives. Among the sectors affected are public transport, refugees, services for people with disabilities, and the two cantonal academic institutions: the Università della Svizzera Italiana (USI) and the Scuola universitaria professionale della Svizzera italiana (SUPSI). For USI, the direct cut amounts to 5.5 million francs, leading to an overall reduction of 6.5 million francs over two years, including the one million cut in 2023. ## The USI budget at risk The interim rector of USI, Gabriele Balbi, describes the situation as a 'perfect storm' threatening the canton’s academic strategy. 'This cut will have a significant impact,' explains Balbi, noting that with a budget of 130 million francs, the loss of 6.5 million represents nearly 5% of revenue. 'The main concern is the strategic vision: what kind of university does Ticino want for the next thirty years? Do we want to maintain this jewel we have built, or opt for something different?' the rector asks. USI has already tapped into its reserves and is evaluating further measures, but the risk of losing competitiveness in the Swiss academic landscape is real. SUPSI, for its part, will face a reduction of 1.3 million francs. The director-general, Franco Gervasoni, points out that 75% of the institute’s costs come from human resources, leaving little room for maneuver. 'We will need to carefully analyze every expense item to avoid compromising attractiveness and competitiveness, especially in an increasingly dynamic academic context,' Gervasoni states. > 📊 Balbi warns: 'It is an unprecedented situation that will put the entire Ticino academic system to the test.' ### Federal cuts already under...

Dettagli operativi

For USI and SUPSI, the reduction in public funding arrives at a critical moment. For years, the two institutions have been a key reference point for cross-border workers and international students, attracting talent from across Europe. However, the Ticino State Council’s decision could force the universities to rethink their policies, with direct repercussions for cross-border commuters who attend their courses. ## The increase in tuition fees for international students One of the solutions proposed by the Ticino Government to mitigate the impact of the cuts is to raise university tuition fees for international students. Currently, the annual tuition at USI stands at 4,000 francs for Swiss students and 8,000 francs for international students. 'These figures are already among the highest in Switzerland,' explains Balbi, 'because the Canton of Ticino funds the university to a lesser extent than other cantons.' The prospect of further increases could discourage international students from enrolling, who are already burdened by high costs and competition from universities in other European countries. ## Competitiveness at risk SUPSI, which relies on a highly regarded professional training model beloved by cross-border workers, risks losing its appeal. '80% of our costs are related to staff,' explains Gervasoni. 'Any cuts to this item could lead to job reductions, which in Ticino represent a significant added value, especially for those working at the border.' The concern is that the loss of competitiveness could push students and faculty to other locations, reducing the educational offerings available to cross-border commuters who cross the border daily to attend classes in Lugano, Mendrisio, or Locarno. ## Comparison with the previous situation Before the cuts, USI a...

Punti chiave

For cross-border workers attending USI or SUPSI, the coming weeks will be decisive. The two universities are evaluating how to address the cuts, and some measures could come into effect as early as the next academic year. Here’s what you should do to protect your interests. ### Step 1: Monitor official communications USI and SUPSI will publish official updates on the measures adopted in the coming days. It is essential to stay informed through institutional channels, such as websites and newsletters. 'Final decisions will be made by the end of the year,' explains Balbi. 'In the meantime, we urge all students to follow official communications and participate in the informative meetings organized by the faculties.' ### Step 2: Explore alternatives If the increase in tuition fees for foreign students is confirmed, cross-border workers may consider other options, such as: - Enrolling in online courses offered by other Swiss universities; - Choosing universities in regions with lower tuition fees, such as German-speaking Switzerland; - Checking whether their employers offer contributions for education. ### Step 3: Contact the guidance offices The guidance offices at USI and SUPSI are available to support students. 'We are aware that this situation may create uncertainty,' says Gervasoni. 'That’s why we are organizing individual meetings to evaluate the best solutions together.' Students can book an appointment through the official websites of the two institutions. ### Step 4: Review your budget An increase in tuition fees or a reduction in scholarship funding could impact your personal finances. It is advisable to: - Review your monthly expenses; - Consider applying for loans or scholarships; - Contact your employer to check for available training subsidies. ### S...

Punti chiave

[{"q":"What are the exact budget cuts planned for USI and SUPSI?","a":"USI will face a CHF 5.5 million cut in 2024, bringing the total reduction to CHF 6.5 million over two years (including the CHF 1 million cut in 2023). SUPSI will lose CHF 1.3 million."},{"q":"Will tuition fees increase for international students?","a":"The Ticino government has proposed raising tuition fees for international students, currently set at CHF 8,000 per year, to mitigate the impact of the cuts. However, no final decision has been made yet."},{"q":"How will these cuts affect courses attended by cross-border workers?","a":"The cuts could lead to a reduction in course offerings, higher university fees, or decreased investment in research and innovation. The universities are evaluating the measures to be implemented."},{"q":"What can cross-border workers do to protect themselves?","a":"Cross-border workers should monitor official communications from USI and SUPSI, consider alternatives such as online courses or universities in other regions, and check the availability of scholarships or contributions from their employers."},{"q":"When will the final measures be defined?","a":"Final decisions from USI and SUPSI are expected by the end of 2024. The measures could come into effect as early as the next academic year."}]

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