Canary Islands Parliament Approves New Law for Social Councils

The Canary Islands Parliament has approved a groundbreaking law to update the regulatory framework of the Social Councils that oversee public universities in the territory. This law, promulgated by the President with the support of the regional government, aims to strengthen the role of these councils as vital links between society and academia.

Key Changes

• Clarification of the legal and operational independence of the Social Councils.
• Expansion of responsibilities to include planning university activities, economic oversight, and safeguarding academic integrity.
• Members of the councils will now be appointed by the regional Parliament, ensuring broader societal representation, including sectors from culture, business, and public administration.
• Introduction of mechanisms for increased transparency, such as access to university data and reporting requirements to Parliament.
• Enhancement of the councils' role in fostering collaboration between universities and external social and economic agents to boost research, innovation, and regional development.

Significance

This reform is significant because it aims to:

• Make universities more accountable.
• Align university activities with regional social and economic needs.
• Provide residents and students with a more transparent and participatory university system.
• Reinforce higher education’s contribution to regional growth and innovation.

"This law will strengthen the vital link between society and academia, fostering greater transparency, participation, and regional development," said a regional government official.