Government announces cuts to public administration – including universities

On 18 June 2025, the government unveiled a new, multi-year work plan for the public sector, aimed in part at limiting state administration and reducing bureaucracy. The plan proposes savings of DKK 5.5 billion on administration in the state by 2030 - of which DKK 0.5 billion will be in the university sector, which will be reprioritised from research administration to research. According to the Ministry of Higher Education and Science, the universities will have to contribute to this part of the reprioritisation, but exactly how - and to what extent - remains unclear.

Analyses in the pipeline

In the near future, a series of analyses will identify potential task reductions, easing of requirements and regulations, as well as further opportunities to streamline administration at the universities. The analyses are prepared in collaboration between the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Higher Education and Science and the universities. A formal mandate for this work is expected to be issued after the summer break.

The universities - SDU among them - are also expected to contribute to state efficiency efforts, including in procurement, financial management and facility operations.

Constructive approach

Thomas Buchvald Vind, University Director, says:
'We take note of the government's political desire to prioritise differently in relation to administrative full-time equivalents. We are waiting for the Ministry of Higher Education and Science to initiate further analyses, and we will engage constructively in the upcoming work. At the same time, I would like to emphasise that employees should not be worried. Nothing is set in stone, and we do not yet know how, or to what extent, SDU will be affected by the proposed changes.

The Rectorate is following the situation closely and will share updates as more concrete information becomes available about how the work plan will affect SDU.