UNED Rector calls FEES funding distribution unfair during legislative hearing

Rodrigo Arias Camacho, rector of the Universidad Estatal a Distancia (UNED), testified before the Legislative Assembly's Commission on Income and Public Expenditure, stating that the current distribution of the Special Fund for Higher Education Financing (FEES) is “not fair.” Arias expressed support for a more equitable redistribution mechanism for 2027 and beyond, noting that proposals are currently being developed to modify the allocation system.

During the hearing, Deputy Gonzalo Ramírez questioned the rector regarding a veto issued by the University of Costa Rica (UCR) Council against a Conare agreement aimed at redistributing FEES. Arias stated he did not consider it fair that a single university could block a redistribution supported by the majority of Conare members.

The testimony is part of a broader legislative investigation into the financial management and transparency of Costa Rica's five state universities. Deputy Antonio Barzuna criticized the administration of public resources, alleging contradictions between requests for more funding and expenditures on non-essential items. The investigation aims to scrutinize the balance between administrative and substantive spending over the next two years.