16.2.2
Policy on Students’ Union Recognition
1. Purpose
This policy establishes the framework for the recognition, independence, and participation of the Students’ Union at the University of Thessaly as an integral part of its governance and community life. The purpose of this policy is to ensure that students are represented effectively, independently, and democratically within the University’s structures and decision-making processes, consistent with national law and international best practices.
2. Scope
This policy applies to:
– The officially recognized University of Thessaly Students’ Union (UTHSU).
– All affiliated student associations operating within the University.
– All University governance bodies, committees, and boards that include student representation.
– All faculties, departments, and administrative units interacting with student organizations.
The policy applies to both undergraduate and postgraduate students, ensuring equal representation across campuses.
3. Definitions
– Students’ Union: The democratically elected body representing all students enrolled at the University of Thessaly.
– Affiliated student associations: Officially recognized student organizations at the department or faculty level that operate under the umbrella of the Students’ Union.
– Independence: The ability of the Students’ Union to function autonomously without interference from the University administration while respecting institutional regulations and national law.
– Representation: The participation of the Students’ Union in University governance, consultation, and advocacy processes.
– Charter: The governing document defining the Union’s constitution, elections, and operations.
4. Policy Statement
The University of Thessaly recognizes and supports the independence and legitimacy of the Students’ Union as the official representative body of its student community. To this end, the University shall:
1. Formally recognize the Students’ Union as an independent legal and representative entity.
2. Ensure that the Union operates freely and democratically, in accordance with its Charter and Greek law.
3. Facilitate student participation in University governance through elected representation.
4. Provide logistical, financial, and institutional support necessary for the Union’s operation.
5. Respect the Union’s autonomy in setting its priorities, policies, and internal affairs.
6. Encourage dialogue between the Union and the University administration.
7. Include the Union in consultations on academic, social, and welfare matters affecting students.
5. Implementation Responsibilities
The Directorate of Student Affairs, under the supervision of the Rector’s Office, is responsible for implementing this policy. Specific responsibilities include:
– Maintaining a registry of recognized student organizations.
– Ensuring compliance with Greek Law 4957/2022 and University statutes.
– Facilitating communication and consultation between the Union and University authorities.
– Providing space, logistical resources, and administrative support for the Union’s activities.
– Coordinating with the Legal Affairs Office on recognition and governance issues.
– Supporting the Union’s participation in national and international student networks.
The Students’ Union is responsible for adhering to its Charter, ensuring transparent elections, and maintaining inclusive representation.
6. Monitoring and Reporting
Monitoring mechanisms include:
– Annual reporting by the Students’ Union to the University Senate on activities, elections, and governance outcomes.
– Periodic review by the Directorate of Student Affairs to ensure compliance with legal and institutional standards.
– Inclusion of student participation indicators in the University’s Sustainability and Governance Reports (SDG 16).
All reports shall be made publicly available on the University’s website.
7. Review and Amendment
This policy shall be reviewed every three (3) years or earlier in the event of changes to student governance legislation or University regulations. Revisions will be proposed by the Directorate of Student Affairs in consultation with the Students’ Union and approved by the governing Council.
8. References and Compliance Frameworks
– Hellenic Authority for Higher Education (HAHE) – ESG Governance and Student Participation Standards (1.3)
– UN Sustainable Development Goal 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions)
– Greek Law 4957/2022 on Higher Education Governance
– European University Association (EUA) – Principles of Student Representation
– European Students’ Union (ESU) Charter of Student Rights
– University of Thessaly Charter and Student Affairs Regulations