Higher education reform is necessary, but it should not weaken the role of academic self-governance, according to the natural science faculties
The drafting of a new higher education law has been the subject of intense debate in academic circles for some time, and there is broad consensus that the modernization and further development of the higher education system require an appropriate legislative framework. Among the key topics in the draft proposals published so far by the Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sports is the future structure of university governance. The Association of Deans of Science Faculties (ADPrF), which brings together representatives of science-oriented faculties across the Czech Republic, has now also weighed in on this issue.
As part of the ongoing expert debate, the association submitted its comments on the background materials prepared by the Institute for the Development of Higher Education (IRVŠ). According to its position, some conclusions would benefit from more detailed analytical support and broader consideration of real-world experience with the functioning of universities. At the same time, it draws attention to the long-term underfunding of the higher education sector, which it considers one of the major systemic problems.
Representatives of the natural science faculties also point out that the evaluation of the current governance model should not be based solely on individual cases covered by the media. They note that most faculties have been operating stably over the long term and successfully fulfilling their mission in the areas of education and creative work. According to them, faculties represent the basic units of universities, upon which the day-to-day delivery of instruction, scientific work, and the preparation of graduates for professional practice rely.
In the debate over the future shape of legislation, the ADPrF therefore considers it important to preserve the rights of faculty bodies guaranteed by law and the democratic character of academic self-governance. At the same time, it supports the existence of clear systemic mechanisms that will ensure balanced relationships between university leadership and their constituent units. It also lists among the important topics the issue of managing assets used by the faculties and the structure of the proposed university councils, regarding which it emphasizes the need to preserve the independence of the academic environment from political influences.
The full text of the statement can be found HERE.
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