In Belgium, higher education is mainly public and highly subsidized. We, students pay an average of €1000 per year in tuition fees and textbooks. This contrasts with countries such as the United States, where tuition fees can easily reach $70,000 per year. The Belgian system is a product of the welfare state: through high taxes, which is on average 50% of our income, the government funds essential services such as education and health care.

Universities such as the Free University of Brussels are strongly committed to democratization through scholarships. Since the 1960s, the number of students in higher education has increased sharply. Today, more than 50% of young people are in higher education.

Yet inequality persists. Students from vulnerable families face difficulties, although public institutions provide assistance. In the US, on the other hand, the privatization of education leads to skyrocketing debts: the average student debt is $37,000.

My experience at the VUB is very positive: I pay relatively little tuition fees, which allows me to focus on my studies without financial worries. This is an opportunity unthinkable in many countries. Also, the VUB is very open-minded, there is room for critical thinking and personal growth. In short, the Belgian model shows that quality and accessible education is possible, with public funding.