Question & AnswerQ&A (Republic Act No. 9717)
The main purpose of Republic Act No. 9717 is to convert the Camarines Sur State Agricultural College in the Municipality of Pili, Province of Camarines Sur into a state university known as the Central Bicol State University of Agriculture.
The university's mandate is to provide advanced instruction and research primarily in agriculture and allied technological sciences including education, arts, and related sciences. It also undertakes extension and development programs in agricultural, environmental, and technological development in the Bicol Region.
No, the university must obtain approval from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) before offering any new degree programs, and such programs must also be approved by the Board of Regents.
The Board of Regents is composed of the Chairperson of CHED as Chairperson, the University President as Vice Chairperson, Chairpersons of the education committees of the Senate and House, Regional Directors of NEDA and DA, Presidents of the faculty association, student council, alumni association, and two prominent citizens from the private sector.
The Board can promulgate rules, receive and appropriate funds, fix tuition and fees, authorize construction and purchase of property, appoint university officials, set academic policies, establish additional research centers and branches, collaborate with institutions, and enter joint ventures, among others.
The Board must convene at least once every quarter but may have up to two special meetings per year upon three days' prior written notice by the Chairperson.
The Board of Regents appoints the University President upon recommendation of a search committee. The President serves a term of four years and may be reappointed for another term.
Faculty appointments must not be influenced by political beliefs, gender preference, cultural or community affiliation, ethnic origin, or religious opinions. Faculty members are prohibited from teaching for or against any particular church or religious sect.
The university enjoys academic freedom and institutional autonomy as guaranteed by paragraph 2, Section 5 of Article XIV of the 1987 Philippine Constitution.
All assets, liabilities, personnel, and records are transferred to the new university. Existing personnel and faculty retain their positions, rights, and tenure. All government land used by the previous college becomes university property, reverting to the government if the university ceases to exist.