Education and Science, Latvia, Legislation

Speaking about political support for a non-partisan minister, Auzins pointed out that the question remains how much political support she can garner for her initiatives, because one thing is what parties have promised, but to actually implement these promises is a whole other thing. ''The second challenge for her will be the work of ministry officials, and I will be diplomatic in saying there is much to be improved,'' Auzins pointed out.

Overall, Auzins says he is cautiously optimistic regarding the new minister, and that his optimism is heightened by her selection of advisors. ''We see the the new minister has the desire to do something. We will see how long her energy and enthusiasm will last,'' the University of Latvia rector added.

Auzins is confident that state financing for higher education must be dependent on achieved results, which would substantially help straighten out the system. In this place, ministry officials are more busy modifying or correcting regulations, and refuse to see larger goals.

He also said that there needs to be larger state support to higher education and science, and that the funds allocated now could easily be doubled, as the sums are not huge. ''Political will is necessary, but I do understand politicians who do not wish to throw money into this system which is currently in disarray,'' he added.