In its new document, “National Coordination of Higher Education Policy 2029–32”, swissuniversities sets a common direction for higher education institutions. It places excellence in teaching, research and knowledge transfer – their core mission – at the forefront. It also defines six thematic priorities and outlines the investments required to implement them.
In a context marked by increasing international competition, rapid technological change, geopolitical tensions and limited public resources, Switzerland must be able to maintain its capabilities in education, research and innovation. Higher education institutions fulfil their core mission in this regard: they educate highly qualified professionals, generate knowledge, develop technologies, and contribute to their transfer to the economy and society.
Strengthening Switzerland’s capacity to act
The document also identifies six areas requiring additional investment: technological sovereignty, space, teaching, research infrastructures, health and security. These areas address challenges that extend beyond higher education institutions alone. They concern Switzerland’s ability to manage the transformations shaping its environment.
Funding higher education institutions to meet the challenges ahead
This ambition is directly aligned with the Federal Council’s objective of keeping Switzerland at the forefront of education, research and innovation. Funding is a decisive lever in achieving this goal. For the 2029–2032 ERI period, swissuniversities is calling in particular for an annual increase of 2.18% in basic contributions, the continuation of contributions for construction investments, and additional funding for the six priority areas. These requests are intended to enable higher education institutions to respond to rising student numbers and costs, maintain the quality of their services, and invest in their future development.
By combining common priorities with targeted investments, higher education institutions will be able to continue fulfilling their mission – in the service of an innovative, prosperous and resilient Switzerland.
- Executive Summary (PDF)
- Full Document in German and French (PDF, 58 pp.)
- Online Portal