`All of the council factions have agreed that the law is clear on this point,' University Council chairman Geerten Schrama says. `The tuition fees are included in the students' charter and any changes in that document will have to be approved by the University Council. The board denies that, but now we're claiming that right.'
Although council factions CC, DD and UReka have agreed on the procedure error, opinions differ as to the necessity of increasing the fees. CC and DD are against a large increase, while UReka thinks a large increase of tuition fees for non-European students is acceptable.
The increased tuition fees of 8100 euros have already been published on the websites of several UT programs. Additionally, the amount has been coordinated with the universities of Eindhoven and Delft. While it seems the change is destined to take place, the University Council is not giving in. `The sector plan speaks of a `veto power' for the three board chairmen, but does that mean we get no say in these matters?'
To be continued, according to Schrama.
Trans. Jeroen Latour
