Swedish Folk High Schools Face Financial Crisis Amid Government Funding Cuts

Folk high schools in Sweden are grappling with a severe financial crisis, exacerbated by substantial government funding cuts. Markaryds folkhögskola has already filed for bankruptcy, while Albins folkhögskola in Landskrona is set to close its doors due to similar financial strains. The troubles can be traced back to 2022, when the previous government permitted folk high schools to offer vocational programs such as nursing and childcare, but the current administration has slashed funding by 500 million kronor in its first year and further reductions are expected next year.

The financial cuts have not only affected folk high schools but also the study associations sharing the same resources. Despite these challenges, many institutions have committed to completing their courses to avoid disappointing students, even incurring significant losses. The government has signaled that there will be no increases in funding for the next two years, leading to fears over the sustainability of these institutions that provide vital education and support for many students from challenging backgrounds.

Critics, including former leaders of folk high schools, warn that this funding reduction endangers the futures of students who rely on these schools for qualifications equivalent to high school diplomas. Looking forward, a new Folkbildningsproposition is anticipated in the fall of 2025, which may shed light on the future of adult education in Sweden, amidst these financial uncertainties.