Unachi: Academic and administrative operations will continue; administrators to present 2027 budget

The Autonomous University of Chiriquí (Unachi) in Panama is navigating a significant financial and institutional crisis. On Wednesday, June 3, university administrators, including administrative vice-rector Rosa Moreno, met with officials from the National Budget Directorate of the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF). Their objective was to present the budget proposal for 2027 and discuss outstanding payments to creditors and social security contributions, which have created uncertainty among staff.

“

For the peace of mind of the entire university community, it is confirmed that the academic and administrative functioning of Unachi will continue normally.

Despite the ongoing challenges, the university issued a statement assuring the academic community that both academic and administrative operations will continue normally. This assurance comes amidst broader concerns about the institution's financial health and management practices. The university's budget has seen fluctuations, with figures showing a decrease from over $100 million requested to $72 million allocated for 2025 and 2026.

“

The Executive will not make a single dollar available to that university precisely because of the disorganization, waste, and corruption that is seen there.

President José Raúl Mulino's administration has implemented drastic budget cuts for Unachi, citing "disorganization, waste, and corruption." Mulino has been vocal in his criticism of the university's rector, Etelvina Medianero de Bonagas, stating that his government would not provide further funds due to alleged mismanagement. He emphasized that practices contrary to transparency and public morals cannot be condoned, even if it means "the innocent suffer with the guilty."

“

From my government, there will not be a single cent as you had the cynicism to ask me (Etelvina de Bonagas) yesterday and the Minister of Economy, cynicism underlined, for that university.

The university has faced intense scrutiny since late 2023, with questions arising about the allocation of its budget, much of which reportedly went towards operational costs and salaries, including excessive pay for some staff. This has led to deep financial and institutional turmoil, with divisions within the university community regarding the rector's actions and the ongoing investigations.

“

the innocent suffer with the guilty.