The role of the Senate, in the words of Vice-President Sonja Hildebrand
Institutional Communication Service
17 April 2023
The Academic Senate is one of USI's central bodies, together with the University Council and the Rectorate. Among its various functions, it expresses views, makes proposals on issues of general interest to USI, promotes cooperation and cohesion within the University, approves study regulations and formally makes appointments of professors. Sonja Hildebrand, Vice-President of the Senate and Pro-Rector for Research in the Humanities and Equal Opportunities at USI, explains its importance.
What role does the Academic Senate play?
The Academic Senate is USI's most representative board. Here, the elected representatives of the four bodies that work at USI - the faculty, the intermediate body, the student body and the administrative staff - work hand in hand with the Deans and the Pro-Rectors on the issues that significantly shape the work and community life at USI. During the institutional changes of the past year, the Senate has proven its independence and has been actively involved in central decision-making processes.
What will be the future developments of the Senate?
In the coming months, the Senate's independent role as USI's central body will be further strengthened as part of a comprehensive reform. More than ever, the Senate thus offers the opportunity to actively contribute to shaping USI's present and future.
Members and functions
The members and functions of the Academic Senate are specified in the Statute of Università della Svizzera italiana.
Regulations
The operating procedures of the Academic Senate are defined in the relevant Regulations.