The President of the Eastern Mediterranean University Academic Staff Union (DAÜ-SEN), Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mustafa Rıza, has drawn attention to the issues surrounding the operation of the Board of Trustees (VYK), the university’s highest decision-making body. Rıza stated that VYK can no longer function as an institutional body, emphasizing, “Our priority is not the replacement of individuals, but to ensure that VYK becomes functional immediately and healthily.”
Rıza expressed that merely ensuring attendance is not sufficient for VYK to operate effectively, stressing the need for all members to consider the law, the will of the university, and academic regulations. He warned that if the understanding of obstructing decisions by not participating in meetings continues, the appointing authorities will have to evaluate VYK members.
Management Crisis and Political Interference
Rıza indicated that the issues faced at Eastern Mediterranean University could be assessed as a management crisis rather than merely a financial crisis. While financial problems may persist in the long term, he noted that these issues are continuously reproduced through management choices and political interventions. He underscored the need for VYK to transition into a structure where different viewpoints are discussed within the framework of the university’s interests.
Stating that permanent financial sustainability cannot be achieved in the existing structure, Rıza stressed the need for principles such as proper planning, transparency, and meritocracy to be prioritized. Furthermore, he noted that financial discipline and corporate governance in the university’s management cannot be considered separately.
Institutional Autonomy and Authority Issues
Prof. Dr. Rıza brought attention to instances of political interference within DAÜ, specifically regarding the processes related to the contracts of academic staff who have reached the age of 65. He viewed the attempt to discuss issues related to academic positions in university councils, despite the lack of decision-making authority in the protocol signed with the government, as an interference in institutional autonomy.
Rıza repeatedly emphasized that the duties and authority limits of each council and authority are clearly defined, stating that evaluations regarding academic positions and special statuses should only be made by the university’s authorized bodies. He argued that sidelining these councils would not be the correct approach to resolving the current system’s deficiencies.
Rıza asserted that VYK members and the Rector should act with the university’s interests in mind, advocating for the strengthening of the understanding of institutional autonomy to address the issues seen in current regulations.
In conclusion, Rıza stated that the future of DAÜ is closely related not only to the current administration but also to long-term decisions that will be made. He expressed that maintaining hope for the university’s future depends on the quality of today’s decisions.
Source: www.yeniduzen.com
