Building Democratic and Sustainable University Governance at Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta

Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta (UNY) has taken significant steps to establish inclusive and effective governance through various regulations that ensure representation and participation from all university stakeholders. According to the Decree of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology (MoECRT) No. 74443/MPK.A/KP.08.06/2022, UNY has defined the composition of its highest governing body, the Majelis Wali Amanat (MWA), to include representatives of undergraduate and graduate students, faculty, and non-faculty staff. This inclusivity allows for a more democratic decision-making process where the viewpoints of multiple stakeholders shape university policies and programs. Technically, this governance framework is reinforced by MWA Decree No. 1/2023, which provides additional structural guidance for effective implementation
 
In addition, under Rector's Decree No. 75.2/UN34/I/2024, UNY has formally recognized an independent students' union. This organization not only provides a platform for addressing student needs and developing soft skills, but also enables students to actively engage in university governance, giving them a voice in decisions that impact their educational experience.
 
UNY’s commitment to stakeholder engagement extends beyond campus boundaries as well. Based on the Rector's Regulation No. 5/2020 on the Merdeka Belajar-Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) or Independent Learning-Independent Campus program, and the Circular Letter on Recognition of Learning Activities Outside the Study Program (No. B/1516/UN34/PK.01.03/2024), UNY has established written policies to identify and collaborate with local stakeholders. This collaboration ensures that UNY’s programs are aligned with local needs and opportunities, enhancing the relevance and impact of its educational offerings. Additionally, the Guidebook for Merdeka Belajar-Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) 2022 ensures that the program is implemented efficiently and effectively across the university.
 
To further strengthen its commitment to academic freedom, UNY has a policy that supports faculty autonomy in research and public discourse, as set forth in Rector Regulation No. 8/2013. This regulation enables faculty to freely pursue, discuss, and teach their research areas, fostering a robust academic environment that encourages innovation and critical inquiry.
 
Through these regulations, UNY is committed to establishing a democratic and sustainable governance model, building a campus community that values inclusive participation and supports the academic freedom essential for growth and discovery.
16. Peace Justice and Strong Institutions
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