New requirements proposed for private university rectors
In Uzbekistan, it is proposed to align the qualification requirements for rectors of non-state higher education institutions with the criteria set for heads of state universities. According to the draft, rectors of private universities may be required to have an academic degree and title, as well as at least five years of leadership experience.
It is proposed to introduce new requirements for rectors of private universities. This is reflected in the draft resolution on amendments to the Unified Regulation on the procedure for licensing certain types of activities through the Special Electronic System, approved by Resolution No. 80 of the Cabinet of Ministers of February 21, 2022, which was submitted for public discussion.
According to the draft, it is proposed to apply criteria similar to the qualification requirements for rectors of state universities to rectors of non-state higher education institutions. In particular, the rector must have the necessary professional and organizational skills, leadership experience in the field of education, and relevant knowledge and skills to work in a management position in a higher education institution.
It is also envisaged that the candidate will be required to have such personal qualities as intelligence, culture, leadership, creativity, courtesy, organization, initiative, and entrepreneurship.
Another important requirement is related to academic degree and title. According to the draft, the rector of a private higher education institution must have a Doctor of Science (DSc) or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in one of the areas in which bachelor's or master's degrees are prepared at the university, as well as the academic title of professor or associate professor.
In addition, the candidate may be required to have worked effectively for at least five years in leadership positions such as head of department, dean of faculty or his deputy, vice-rector, or in republican executive authorities in the field of higher education.
The draft document also provides for a two-month period for the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, together with interested ministries and departments, to bring relevant regulatory legal acts into line with the new requirements.
So far, these requirements are provided for in the draft resolution, and the document is undergoing public discussion.