Fnogec denounces funding cuts

The Federation of Catholic Education Management Organizations (Fnogec) has criticized the removal of 8.99 billion euros in funding for private schools under contract, which was approved by the finance committee as part of the 2027 budget. The group warns that the cuts will have serious consequences for students and teachers.

Funding reduction exceeds program budget

On October 29, the finance committee of the National Assembly removed 8.99 billion euros from the program that funds private schools under contract. This program had only 8.94 billion euros allocated, leaving a shortfall of 53 million euros, according to Fnogec.

Impact on Catholic schools under contract

The 2.1 million students enrolled in 7,500 Catholic schools under contract, which represent 96 percent of the private sector under contract, face potential closures, according to Fnogec. The organization says the cuts would make it impossible for the 130,000 teachers in these schools to be paid.

Fnogec president calls for government action

Pierre-Vincent Guéret, president of Fnogec, criticized the move, stating that families would either have to pay teachers directly or students would be sent back to public schools. He called the situation "absolutely contrary to the organization of contracted education" and described it as "a declaration of war."

Amendment targets teacher salaries

The funding cuts are linked to an amendment from France Insoumise, which aims to increase teachers' salaries by 20 percent. This amendment alone removes 8.3 billion euros from private education funding, according to Fnogec.

Budget proposal faces uncertain future

The measure still needs approval in public session at the National Assembly, but the budget proposal has little chance of passing without a majority. If the revenue section is rejected, the deputies would not proceed to debate the spending section.