With the backing of 73.7% of the senators, the new UPV/EHU statutes will ensure greater representation for students and non-permanent teaching and research staff in university bodies. Furthermore, the structures comprising the university will gain increased autonomy and presence.
The nearly seven-hour meeting was described as "highly participatory," with numerous UPV/EHU members speaking to defend presented allegations or to express their views. 85% of the 237 senators took part in the extensive debate, during which nearly a hundred allegations were resolved.
“"The participation during the Senate aligns with the main objective underlying the new statutes: to strengthen democratic character."
The approved text defines the UPV/EHU as "a plural and feminist university, a defender of LGTBI+ values, a proponent of coexistence, and one that considers all communities that make up the institution." In this vein, the representation and weighting of students and non-permanent teaching and research staff have been increased in university bodies and in the elections to choose the rector.
Additionally, the senators voted by a majority among three options for the university's official name. With 106 votes in favor, "Euskal Herriko Unibertsitatea (EHU)" was chosen, in line with the new brand presented last June, and the institution will henceforth be referred to exclusively in Basque.
