Schools and universities struggling with growing debt problem
In July 2024, Poland's education sector faced rising debt, with total arrears amounting to nearly PLN 25 million, up from PLN 20.7 million last year. According to the National Debt Register, 12,400 debtors owe PLN 24.6 million to educational institutions. Individuals, who make up 78% of these debts, owe PLN 19.3 million, with an average debt of nearly PLN 20,000 each. Businesses owe PLN 5.3 million, primarily for rental and services.
Higher education institutions are most affected, with PLN 8.3 million owed by private institutions and PLN 5.3 million by public universities. Increased inflation and rising living costs are contributing factors, while debt management and lack of awareness also play roles. Educational institutions themselves owe PLN 55.9 million, exacerbating their financial difficulties.
