The Complutense University of Madrid has announced a new Economic Financial Plan for the years 2025-2028, which has been in development for the past seven months. This plan, presented during a government council meeting, is reportedly aimed at aligning with the priorities set forth by regional President Isabel Díaz Ayuso and her Education Minister. Central to the proposal is a significant reduction in professors, course offerings, and degree programs in response to ongoing financial constraints faced by the university. Furthermore, the university is under pressure to repay a substantial loan amounting to €34.5 million, plus an additional €4.1 million in interest, to the regional government, which adds urgency to the plan's implementation.

Complicating matters, the recent dismissal of Emilio Viciana, the former councilor, just before the plan's presentation has raised suspicions regarding the motivations behind such timing. His removal was evidently delayed to avoid the appearance of capitulating to the recent strike protesting against the underfunding of universities in Madrid, particularly in the wealthiest community in Spain. The strike reflected growing discontent among faculty and students about the management of higher education and its funding, issues that are now becoming even more pronounced as this plan is rolled out.

As the Complutense University scales back its offerings, the implications for students and faculty could be profound, raising concerns about academic freedom, the range of educational opportunities available, and the overall future of public education in Madrid. The move may also ignite further protests as stakeholders react to changes in the academic landscape that seem to undermine the institution's commitment to quality higher education amidst rising financial pressures.