Head of Parliamentary Committee Sees Threats for Universities If Salary Increase for Educators Is Not Resolved

Serhiy Babak, the head of the Verkhovna Rada Committee on Education, Science, and Innovation, has raised alarms about the current state of funding for salary increases for educators at higher educational institutions. According to Babak, if this issue is not resolved, it could result in significant reductions in faculty staff or even the closure of specific higher education establishments.

During a recent committee meeting, the formation of a new salary model for scientific and pedagogical workers was discussed. Babak noted that salary increases for these educational professionals had already been implemented at the beginning of the year, amounting to a 30% increase to the base salary by 2025. However, he emphasized that the current situation is critical, as the budget program for this salary increase has yet to be approved.

The committee head pointed out that for the past three months, the Ministry of Education and Science (MoES) and the Ministry of Finance (MoF) have been attempting to align expenditures with the end of the year under the general fund of the state budget, while universities are forced to deplete their special funds. This raises serious concerns about the financial stability of higher educational institutions.

Babak also reminded attendees that another salary increase of 20% is scheduled for September 1. He stressed the urgent need to resolve this issue, as the consequences could be catastrophic. "If the situation is not regulated, it could lead either to a reduction in faculty staff or there is a risk of closing certain institutions," he stated in a message on his Telegram channel.

Among other important aspects, Babak highlighted that salary increases for scientific workers are based on the results of the certification of scientific institutions. "Higher certification category equals higher salary. We will look at the results, and then conclusions should be drawn," he added.

The committee head also noted that by April 22, the Ministry of Education and Science must provide the committee with a coordinated concept of a new salary model, including proposals to address these challenges. "Without a systematic update of salary payments, it is impossible to talk about competitive science and quality higher education," Babak concluded, underscoring the critical nature of the situation in Ukrainian education.