Academic freedom policy

Contents

1. Policy statement and purpose

2. Objectives of the Policy and Guidelines

3. Scope and applicability of the Policy

4. Procedures

4. Legal framework

5. Definitions

1. Policy statement and purpose

1.1. Qassim University (QU) is committed to fostering a culture of peace, justice, and academic freedom within the university. In alignment with Saudi Vision 2030, the University recognizes the importance of strong institutions in promoting good governance, accountability, and the rule of law. It encourages greater openness, diversity, and innovation in higher education, while also incorporating cultural respect and national priorities.

1.2 The purpose of this policy is to emphasize that freedom of inquiry and expression are fundamental to cultivating a thriving academic environment.

1.3 This policy outlines the university's commitment to protect, promote and defend the exercise of academic freedom - the right to teach, learn, and pursue research without undue interference, whether from legal constraints, institutional pressures, or public influence. Researchers have the right to explore any topic of intellectual or human interest and present their findings in a professional and specialized manner, free from control or censorship. However, the principles of integrity, accountability, and responsibility shall be applied to prevent violation of established research standards or ethical principles.

2. Objectives of the Policy and Guidelines

2.1 The main purpose of this policy is to:

• Set legal and regulatory frameworks to safeguard and strengthen academic freedom. Academic freedom shall be exercised in accordance with Islamic values and the laws and regulations of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
• Promote proper research practices and ensure their integrity by establishing clear academic principles of research ethics. 
• Engage faculty in legal research to address societal issues.
• Collaborate with local communities to promote awareness of legal rights, responsibilities, and dispute resolution mechanisms. Empower communities to seek peaceful solutions to conflicts and foster a continuous, trust-driven dialogue within the sector.
• Ensure the autonomy of decisions made by research councils and funding bodies, as well as the diversity of the research they support.
• Integrate ethical education, instilling values of integrity, fairness, and respect for human rights among students. 
• Enhance transparency in operations, foster trust among students, faculty, and staff. Transparent practices contribute to a culture of accountability.
• Support student-led organizations and clubs that focus on social justice, human rights, and community service. Provide students with opportunities to advocate for positive change.

3. Scope and applicability of the Policy

3.1 This policy applies to all researchers, including faculty, students, members of the University community and anyone using the University's facilities for both supported and unsupported research.

3.2 The policy encompasses all the activities conducted with academic purpose, such as teaching, learning, research, invention, application of knowledge, and the publication and distribution of the outcomes of academic activities.

4. Procedures

4.1 Policy Implementation: University leadership is responsible for ensuring the effective implementation of this policy, guaranteeing that academic freedom is respected and upheld in all academic and research activities.

4.2 Reporting breaches of policy: Faculty members, researchers, or students may report the issues regarding academic freedom violations via the university's designated channels. The university pledges to investigate and resolve such concerns promptly and impartially.

4.3 Training and Awareness: The University will provide continuous training and awareness programs to inform the academic community about the importance of academic freedom, their rights under this policy, and the proper procedures for raising and resolving issues.

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4. Legal framework

4.1 This policy is designed in accordance with legal and strategic directives of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to provide more freedom to Saudi universities and enhance scientific research.

4.2 This policy shall be reviewed every two years by the University Council, in collaboration with relevant internal and external stakeholders, to ensure its ongoing relevance, effectiveness, and compliance with national legislation.

5. Definitions

5.1 Academic staff - any staff member employed by the University who is responsible for research, scholarship, or teaching.

5.2 Staff member - an employee of the University

5.3 Student - any individual enrolled in a course of study at the University, or a student participating in an exchange program.

5.4 Members of the University Community - staff members, students, independent contractors, visiting faculty, visiting scholars, visiting scholars, visiting interns, professors emeriti, volunteers, and all other individuals offering services to the University.