Question & AnswerQ&A (Republic Act No. 8292)
The short title of Republic Act No. 8292 is the "Higher Education Modernization Act of 1997."
The declared policy is to establish, maintain, and support a complete, adequate, and integrated system of education relevant to the needs of the people and society, and to modify the composition of governing boards of chartered state universities and colleges for more coordination, effectiveness, relevant governance, and academic freedom.
The governing body is vested in the Board of Regents for universities and the Board of Trustees for colleges composed of the CHED Chairman as Chairman; university/college president as Vice Chairman; Chairmen of Congressional Committees on Education and Culture; regional directors of NEDA, DOST, or DA depending on the institution; faculty association president; student council president or representative; alumni association president; and two prominent citizens.
They are chosen from a list of at least five qualified persons from the city or province where the school is located, recommended by a search committee constituted by the President of the university in consultation with the CHED Chairman, and appointed by the Board of Regents/Trustees.
They serve on the Board until the expiration of their term of office in their respective capacities.
The board can enact rules and regulations; receive and appropriate funds; accept and administer donations; fix tuition and other fees; authorize construction and purchases; appoint officials and employees; set admission and graduation policies; award honorary degrees; establish research centers; delegate powers; authorize audits; collaborate with other institutions; enter joint ventures; develop linkages; adopt innovative teaching methods; and extend the president's term beyond retirement under certain conditions.
The president administers the university or college, renders full-time service, is appointed by the Board upon a search committee's recommendation, serves a four-year term, and may be reappointed once.
A majority of all members holding office constitutes a quorum, provided that the CHED Chairman or the university/college president is present in the meeting.
No, except for the provision related to the chairmanship of the Board, the Act does not affect the charter of the University of the Philippines System.
By the 15th day of the second month after classes start each year, the president must file a detailed report on the progress, conditions, and needs of the institution to the Office of the President of the Philippines through the CHED Chairman, and to the Senate and House of Representatives.