Background and Relevance
On October 3, more than 40,000 people gathered in Pachuca de Soto, Hidalgo, to support the Autonomy of Universities. The event was organized by the National Association of Universities and Higher Education Institutions (ANUIES) and the Autonomous University of the State of Hidalgo (UAEH).
Who is involved?
The Autonomous University of the State of Hidalgo (UAEH) is a public university located in Hidalgo, Mexico. The National Association of Universities and Higher Education Institutions (ANUIES) is a non-profit organization that represents public universities in Mexico. Both entities are crucial in advocating for academic freedom and quality education.
The Significance of University Autonomy
University autonomy is a constitutional principle that ensures institutions can independently manage and govern themselves. This principle is vital for providing a free, critical, and high-quality education that helps overcome inequalities and fosters sustainable development.
Historical Context
In 2018, the Supreme Court of Justice of the Nation (SCJN) protected university independence by preventing a local reform from limiting the autonomy of institutions, including their ability to determine their academic paths for students, faculty, staff, and society.
Speeches and Recognition
Octavio Castillo Acosta, Rector of UAEH
During the celebration, Octavio Castillo Acosta, the rector of UAEH, emphasized that university autonomy is not about superiority but rather the freedom to fulfill institutional responsibilities responsibly. He highlighted that autonomy represents academic freedom, thought, creativity, and research necessary for universities to carry out their substantive and adjective functions.
Luis Armando González Placencia, ANUIES Secretary General
Luis Armando González Placencia, the secretary general of ANUIES, acknowledged UAEH’s eight-year struggle for autonomy protection against political interference. He praised UAEH as an example for all Mexican universities, emphasizing the importance of unity in defending autonomy.
Key Messages and Impact
University autonomy is not merely a constitutional arrangement; it’s a symbol of academic freedom, crucial for fostering responsible institutional missions. It enables universities to shape excellent professionals and citizens while respecting human dignity and environmental care.
Defending Academic Independence
For UAEH, October 3 is more than a commemoration; it’s an opportunity to reaffirm their commitment to defending academic independence, turning it into a shared societal responsibility. Through self-organization, self-management, and self-governance, universities promote social justice while respecting human dignity and the environment.
Event Participants
Notable attendees included Lidia García Anaya (President of the University Patronage), Saúl Agustín Sosa Castelán (General Secretary of the UAEH Academic Staff Union), Norma Baños Hernández (General Secretary of the UAEH Workers and Employees Union), Monserrat Patiño García (President of the Hidalgo State University Student Council), and several former rectors, witnesses, and advocates of university autonomy.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the significance of university autonomy? University autonomy ensures institutions can independently manage and govern themselves, providing a free, critical, and high-quality education that helps overcome inequalities and fosters sustainable development.
- Why is October 3 important for UAEH? October 3 marks the day when the Supreme Court protected university independence, preventing a local reform from limiting autonomy. It’s an opportunity for UAEH to reaffirm their commitment to defending academic independence as a shared societal responsibility.
- Who attended the event? Notable attendees included Lidia García Anaya, Saúl Agustín Sosa Castelán, Norma Baños Hernández, Monserrat Patiño García, and several former rectors, witnesses, and advocates of university autonomy.
