IPOH, Jan 28 (Bernama) -- The Universities and University Colleges Act (AUKU) 1971 remains relevant, and its enforcement is essential for smooth administration of universities across the country, said Prof Dr Norkhalid Salimi.
The Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) deputy vice-chancellor (Student Affairs and Alumni) said AUKU provides a solid foundation for the establishment, maintenance and administration of public universities in the country, ensuring quality, orderly and sustainable management.
“Despite undergoing several amendments to keep pace with changing times, AUKU remains relevant as a balanced legal framework ensuring academic freedom in line with social responsibility, thereby reinforcing the country’s higher education ecosystem,” he said in a statement today.
Norkhalid, who is also the chairman of the Committee of Deputy Vice-Chancellors for Student Affairs and Alumni of Public Universities, said this in response to the firm stance of Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir, who stated that the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) has no plans to abolish AUKU.
Zambry reportedly said that AUKU serves as the primary legal framework for the establishment, maintenance and administration of public universities, and the act has been amended eight times to enhance governance and oversee student activities and discipline.
Norkhalid added that the Committee of Deputy Vice-Chancellors for Student Affairs and Alumni of Public Universities expressed its full support for the government’s efforts to preserve and strengthen AUKU as the primary reference for university governance.
“We will also ensure that all amendments are in line with the principles of student well-being and the integrity of universities as institutions committed to the holistic development of students,” he said.
According to him, AUKU encompasses fair and effective discipline management, transparency in student association finances, and student participation in the campus democratic process.
He added that the implementation of AUKU has helped foster a conducive environment for students to grow while developing maturity and responsibility.
--BERNAMA
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