At Bansomdejchaopraya Rajabhat University (BSRU), academic freedom is a core value that underpins our commitment to research, teaching, and innovation. As a government institution, we adhere to the regulations set by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation (MHESI), which guide our academic practices. Our policies are designed to foster an environment where faculty members, staff, and graduate students are encouraged to engage in innovative research, contribute to academic excellence, and uphold the principles of social responsibility, independence, and equality in higher education. This ensures that all members of the academic community can contribute meaningfully to the growth and development of the university while maintaining the highest standards of academic integrity and intellectual freedom.
Academic Freedom aligned with MHESI
BSRU’s 5-Year Strategic Action Plan emphasizes the development and improvement of the skills and capabilities of university leaders and staff to ensure their effective contribution to the university’s growth and success (p.36). In addition, the plan outlines guidelines introduced by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation, with approval from the Higher Education Commission, to promote social responsibility, academic freedom, independence, and equality within higher education institutions (p.43, point 1.16). These guidelines encourage universities to contribute positively to society, uphold freedom in teaching, research, and academic expression, support institutional autonomy, and ensure fairness and equal opportunity for all. The guidelines were approved in a meeting on April 27, 2021, and officially announced on October 20, 2021, with an effective date of December 21, 2021. You can read the guidelines underneath, with a focus on Academic Freedom on page 3.
[MHESI Academic Freedom Guidelines]
Academic Freedom aligned with BSRU’s 5-Year Plan
In accordance with Bansomdejchaopraya Rajabhat University’s 5-year Strategic Plan (2021–2025), the university has incorporated an Academic Freedom Policy, which is detailed on pages 33-34 of the University Council Policy. Specifically, in Item 11.3 (Personnel) and Item 11.4 (Research and Innovation), the policy encourages lecturers, staff, and graduate students to engage in research that contributes to academic standing. It also emphasizes the importance of innovative research in their fields, particularly research aligned with national and international publication priorities.
The Academic Freedom Policy aligns with Section 5 of the university’s guidelines on operations, focusing on enhancing faculty capabilities. This is outlined in subsections 1.1–1.3 (Page 36), which advocate for teacher autonomy in their teaching approaches. Additionally, subsections 2.1–2.4 (Page 37) emphasize the importance of faculty expertise in research and the dissemination of their work across various formats. The policy also aims to create systems conducive to developing SMART TEACHERS in personnel management, as detailed in subsection 5.1.1 (Page 38).
