Illustrative photo · The White House / Wikimedia Commons · Domaine public
Students at the University of Buenos Aires protested against President Javier Milei's austerity measures on campus, according to Al Jazeera.
The protest took place in the central hall of the university's Exact and Natural Sciences building, where banners covered the walls. Students occupied the university for a day to raise awareness.
Physics student Emiliano Gato expressed concern about losing top professors to private universities due to inadequate salaries. He feared the austerity measures threatened the future of public education.
Milei's austerity plan, one of Argentina's toughest, has sparked widespread protests, especially affecting public universities. It is part of measures aimed at combating inflation, which has decreased over the past three years.
Despite the economic growth hailed by Milei, his policies have strained public services, including education and welfare. Tensions rose as the government was fined for not implementing a law to restore university funding.
The situation escalated when thousands protested in Buenos Aires, leading to clashes with police. Demonstrators demanded government compliance with laws to support public education.
Professor Maria Teresa de Jesus criticized the effects on public education, citing difficulties in making ends meet on her salary. She emphasized the importance of accessible education.
While some Argentines support Milei's economic direction, banking on potential resource exploitation benefits, others criticize him for prioritizing the wealthy over broader public needs.
