Uni funds to be 'results-based'

A results-based system for determining the level of university funding has been proposed by the Senate.

Education Minister Valérie Pécresse has called for a reform to the current system which is heavily biased towards allocating funds according to the number of students enrolled.

This means of determining how much cash a university receives from the state has been accused of creating a culture where universities get as many students as possible to enroll, to the detriment of teaching quality.

At present, money is awarded on a system of credits. Only 3% of these credits are awarded on the basis of results.

It is proposed this be increased to 10%, which will be based on both academic results and the number of students who get professional employment in the six months after graduation. The students’ salary levels and whether or not they obtain management-level positions will also be taken into account.

For research funding, only 10% of credits are currently awarded according to results. It is proposed this will rise to 50%.

Although student numbers will continue to be a factor in the allocation of credits, these will be based on numbers sitting exams, rather than how many have enrolled for courses.

Aube Senator Philippe Adnot, who is heading a working party on the reforms, said: “No university should lose out.

“Those that have been deemed deficient will benefit from a first stage of extra funding to get up to speed.

“Those that are doing well will keep their funding levels and will be encouraged to improve standards further.”

Student union UNEF criticized the proposals, saying reforms would “penalize those universities that most need funding”.

Photo: Tungsten