Students at the University of Buenos Aires are protesting against President Javier Milei's austerity measures, which they claim threaten the future of free higher education in Argentina. During an assembly in the central hall of the university's Exact and Natural Sciences building, students announced their intention to occupy the building for a day. They displayed numerous banners criticizing Milei's spending cuts, which have resulted in significant layoffs and reduced funding for public universities since he took office in 2023.
Emiliano Gato, a physics student, expressed concern over the impact of these policies, stating that many professors are leaving for private institutions due to inadequate salaries. He emphasized his dream of conducting research at the public university but is uncertain about the future due to the austerity plan.
Milei's government has implemented one of the strictest austerity plans in Argentina's history, aimed at combating high inflation. While inflation has decreased to around 2 percent monthly, the austerity measures have led to widespread protests, particularly in the education sector. Critics argue that these cuts are detrimental to public education and welfare programs.
In response to the government's failure to fund public universities adequately, a federal judge has imposed fines on the government for not implementing a law that would restore salaries and scholarships. Protests intensified on October 16, 2026, with thousands taking to the streets in Buenos Aires, leading to clashes with police that resulted in injuries and arrests.
Professor Maria Teresa de Jesus highlighted the financial struggles faced by educators, stating that her monthly salary of approximately $700 is insufficient to cover living expenses. She emphasized the importance of public education and criticized the government's neglect of the sector.
While some Argentines support Milei's economic strategy, believing it will lead to job creation and improved living standards, others are increasingly disillusioned and accuse the government of favoring the wealthy at the expense of the broader population.