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Parliament has suspended consideration of the controversial public universities bill due to public outrage, said minority education spokesman Peter Nortsu Kotoe.
The bill that seeks to harmonize the governance, operation and administration of the country’s public universities has generated controversy and criticism from educational sector actors since its introduction.
While some argue that the bill seeks to take away academic freedom and autonomy from public universities, the Ministry of Education has argued that it will harmonize the management of public universities.
But speaking to Adom News, the Akatsi North MP, said the Education Committee recommended that the government slow down the bill to allow more consultation.
“The Education Commission analyzed the Public Universities Bill and we have recommended that in view of the criticism and the number of petitions we have received, it will be better for the government to stick with the approval of the bill because there is a need for a further consultation “.
He said that with just two weeks left for the House to pause for campaign activities related to the December 7 elections, it will also be impossible for the 7th Parliament to consider the bill.
“It will not appear in the bills that we will be looking at for this meeting of Parliament.
“I have already said on many occasions that this bill was not necessary and that it was going to stifle the freedom of universities and academics so the government should rewrite it.
“So I have been in that position for a long time, so if it is not fulfilled, the better for the government,” he added.
About the invoice
According to the drafters of the Public Universities Bill, it seeks to harmonize the financial, administrative and governance structure of public universities.
The bill, once approved, will give the government power to appoint the majority of the members of the University Council.
The Council then has the power to appoint and dismiss officials of public universities.
The bill also gives the president the power to dissolve the university council, which will now have the power to appoint a rector.
It also gives effect to the University Council to control the finances of the university and determine the allocation of funds.
In addition, there is a proposal to change the name of four public universities by various personalities.
