The "Independent Academics" list, running for the elections of the Executive Authority of the Association of Full-Time Professors at Lebanese University, presented its electoral program under the title: "The Continuity of the University is Your Responsibility... So Choose Well."
The National News Agency quoted a statement from the "Independent Academics" list as saying that the strength and stability of nations stem from the strength of their universities and scientific laboratories, where researchers and professors play a significant role in shaping economic, social, educational, and other policies. The "Independent Academics" list emphasized that what the Lebanese University has reached today, along with the current state of the country, is a result of partisan allocations and patronage that undermine the principles of merit and justice.
The list asserted its commitment to pressuring by all available means to increase the university's budget for its continuity and scientific advancement, as well as advocating for the job security of professors by incorporating contracted professors into the university’s permanent staff, and including retired professors into the university’s staff, while ensuring all eligible contracted professors achieve permanent status.
The list stressed its commitment to resisting any attempts to infringe upon the professors’ acquired rights and not allowing them to become subjects of bargaining, while also preserving the mutual aid fund and improving its offerings. It aims to achieve equity among professors by ensuring equal opportunities in academic and administrative appointments.
Additionally, the list emphasized working with the Delegates Council and the General Assembly to restructure the association and unify the teaching body, as well as amending its internal regulations to become more modern, democratic, and representative, aligning with the aspirations of university professors.
The list pledged to work towards the academic, administrative, and financial independence of the university by advocating for the principles of merit and competency in administrative appointments, hiring professors, committee selections, and educational grants by activating the university council and enhancing the academic role of department councils.
It also indicated plans to unify the teaching body and empower professors to engage in union activities through regular meetings with delegates, activating general assemblies, holding seminars and discussion sessions on professors' rights and duties, preparing workshops on university-related issues that concern professors, and engaging with students to understand their problems and aspirations, while advocating for student elections as a vital matter for the university.
