Report calls for state support for France's private colleges

French private higher education needs more government support, according to a report that recommends setting up partnerships between the state and private grandes écoles .

The report on the future of private higher education, by MP Jerome Chartier, was commissioned last year by Prime Minister Jean-Pierre Raffarin.

The private sector comprises 321 establishments. Some are subsidised by the state, but many are not recognised as serving the needs of public service education.

Mr Chartier's report recommends: the creation of a higher education and research foundation; a new legal status for schools not already under contract to the state but that fulfil public service needs, which would then qualify for government funding; and 100 per cent bank loans for private students, guaranteed by the school and the state and repayable over ten years.

Details: www.ladocfrancaise.gouv.fr/brp/notices/054000284.shtml