More responsive to needs and priorities

of the oldest universities in the country, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) was granted autonomous status in 2012.

UKM deputy vice-chancellor (academic and international) Professor Datuk Dr Marzuki Mustafa said with the power granted to the university’s board of directors and governors, the tertiary institution has the right to make its own decisions as long as it follows regulations.

“In general, it empowers the board to manage the university independently. Since the university is mainly funded by the government, it follows government policies and rulings related to finance and human resources.

“But instead of being monitored by the government, this role is mainly taken up by the university board,” he added.

With autonomous status, universities are able to respond more effectively to their needs and priorities.

“It allows us to plan and manage the operations of the university in line with its strategy, mission and vision.

“With the proposed revision of the University and University Colleges Act, more power will be given to the board especially on the appointment of top management.”

Marzuki hoped that financial management of funds generated by the university will not be subject to Treas- ury ruling.

“While we already enjoy significant autonomy in academic matters, greater independence is welcome.

“The challenge now is for the university to generate more wealth to be financially less dependent on the government.”

But even with autonomous status, there is still room for the university to push for scholarly excellence, be more impactful in its core activities and be more entrepreneurial in running the institution.

“We are drawing up a long-term plan with several strategic initiatives for wealth creation.”

Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) vice-chancellor Professor Datin Paduka Datuk Aini Ideris said with autonomous status, UPM accredits its own programmes, following Malaysian Qualifications Agency guidelines.

Committees at UPM audit the programmes before seeking the senate’s approval.

“For good governance, experts from other tertiary institutions form part of the committees.”

Aini, who was UPM deputy vicechancellor (academic and international) from December 2008 to November 2013, is instrumental in the preparation for university autonomy and various other initiatives in relation to improvements to the curriculum, teaching and learning at the university. UPM was granted the status on Jan 26, 2012.