Law Summary
Primary Mandate and Scope
- The University shall provide higher professional and special instructions for special purposes.
- It is tasked to promote research, extension services, advanced studies, and progressive leadership in education and other relevant fields.
Educational Programs
- The University offers undergraduate and graduate courses primarily in education.
- It may offer other degree courses as deemed necessary by the Board of Regents.
Corporate Powers and Administration
- PNU has the general powers of a corporation.
- Administration and exercise of corporate powers are vested exclusively in the Board of Regents and the University President as authorized.
Composition of the Board of Regents
- The Board includes key government officials such as the Secretary of Education (Chairman), University President (Vice Chairman), and education committee chairmen of both Senate and House.
- Other members include representatives from NEDA, faculty, student councils, alumni, employees, and two prominent citizens.
- Terms vary from ex officio for government officials to fixed terms for others.
Policy-Making Authority
- The Board promulgates policies in line with state and constitutional policies on education, arts, culture, and sports.
Specific Powers and Duties of the Board
- Enact rules and regulations necessary for University functions.
- Manage appropriations and financial resources, including tuition and fees.
- Import duty-free educational materials not available locally.
- Accept and manage donations and legacies with tax exemptions.
- Fix tuition and charges, managing special trust funds for University use.
- Authorize construction, repair, and acquisition of properties and equipment.
- Exempt purchases from taxes and duties.
- Confirm appointments of high-ranking personnel.
- Set salaries for faculty and staff.
- Approve curricula, institutional programs, and discipline rules.
- Confer academic degrees and honorary degrees.
- Establish necessary branches and academic chairs.
- Provide fellowships and scholarships.
Board Meetings and Quorum
- A majority including either the Secretary of Education or the University President constitutes a quorum.
- Regular meetings every two months; special meetings called by the Chairman.
- Board members do not receive salaries but are reimbursed for official expenses.
Presidency of the University
- The University President is appointed by the Philippine President on Board recommendation.
- Term is six years without reappointment unless retirement, removal, or incapacitation occurs.
- Vacancies filled by an officer-in-charge appointed by the Board.
- Salary fixed by the Board comparable to presidents of similar institutions.
Retirement Benefits
- The University President is entitled to retirement benefits under existing laws.
Administrative and Academic Councils
- Administrative Council led by the President manages administration, management, and development planning.
- Academic Council, also led by the President and comprising faculty (assistant professor rank or higher), oversees curricula and disciplinary powers over students.
University Secretary and Treasurer
- Secretary appointed by the Board maintains University and Board records.
- Treasurer of the Philippines serves as ex officio Treasurer of the University.
Faculty Appointments and Exemptions
- Faculty exempt from civil service exams and regulations.
- No inquiry into religious beliefs; faculty prohibited from teaching for or against any religion.
- Faculty and personnel exempt from compensation and civil service regulations.
Admissions and Academic Freedom
- No student denied admission on account of sex, nationality, religion, or political affiliation.
- University guaranteed academic freedom.
Transitional Provisions
- Incumbent head of the Philippine Normal College serves as officer-in-charge pending appointment of President.
Annual Reporting Requirements
- Board must submit a detailed report on progress, conditions, and needs to the President, Secretary of Education, and Congress within two months after the start of classes each year.
Transfer of Assets and Personnel
- All assets, personnel, and records of the Philippine Normal College and branches transferred to the University.
- Rights and security of tenure of personnel preserved.
- Government land properties transferred to the University and reversion clauses apply.
Audit and Accountability
- University accounts and expenses audited by the Commission on Audit or authorized representatives.
Government Support and Resource Sharing
- Heads of national bureaus may loan apparatus, equipment, supplies, or personnel to the University when possible.
- Employees loaned perform duties as required and time counts as official service.
Affiliation and Integration of Schools
- Continuing policy to accept affiliation or integration of national schools aiding University objectives.
- Secretary of Education approves schools for integration; funds and assets transferred accordingly.
Appropriations
- Existing appropriations of the Philippine Normal College transferred to the University.
- Budget for operation included in the General Appropriations Act.
Repeal and Effectivity
- Laws or regulations inconsistent with the Act are repealed or modified.
- The Act takes effect immediately upon approval.