A study by the University of Minho reveals that 72% of mayors (autarcas) believe central government funding is insufficient to cover the costs of non-teaching school staff. The research also found that 64% of municipalities face a deficit of at least 20% for school meals (apoio alimentar). The Minister of Territorial Cohesion acknowledged the shortfall and suggested a revision of the local finance law (Lei das Finanças Locais) to address the imbalance.
Mayors report significant funding gaps for schools and student meals
Monday, 30 March 2026AI summary

Sources (5)
- School meal funding 20% below costs in most municipalitiesDiário de Notícias · 5:22pm, 30 Mar 2026
- 72% of mayors lack sufficient funds for school staffCorreio da Manhã · 4:25pm, 30 Mar 2026
- Government wants "balanced accounts" in education fundingObservador · 5:45pm, 30 Mar 2026
- Municipal spending on schools exceeds funding. School meals are a “critical issue”Público · 4:28pm, 30 Mar 2026
- 72% of mayors lack sufficient funds for school staff, study revealsECO · 4:58pm, 30 Mar 2026


