World Citi Colleges (WCC) upholds the principle of institutional academic freedom as a cornerstone of its mission in bringing comprehensive outcomes-based quality education while upholding Christian-values. As a higher education institution, WCC affirms its autonomy to determine its aims and objectives, and to pursue these through policies, programs, and practices that align with its vision to be one of Asia’s best multi-disciplinary colleges of choice in producing globally competitive graduates. This commitment ensures the integrity of academic pursuits and the promotion of critical thinking, innovation, and community engagement.

POLICY STATEMENT

World Citi Colleges (WCC) upholds and promotes the principle of academic freedom, recognizing the importance of autonomy in defining institutional aims, objectives, and methodologies to foster a learning environment that champions innovation, critical inquiry, and excellence. Academic freedom is exercised within the boundaries of public interest, ensuring the institution's commitment to social responsibility, ethical practices, and the holistic development of learners.

PURPOSE

This policy aims to provide a framework for exercising academic freedom that aligns with the mission and vision of World Citi Colleges, enabling educators, researchers, and administrators to make informed and independent decisions while maintaining accountability. It ensures that academic pursuits are free from undue external interference, except when public interest or safety necessitates intervention.

SCOPE

This policy applies to all academic and administrative units of World Citi Colleges, including faculty, researchers, students, and staff. It encompasses academic program development, research endeavors, teaching methodologies, and institutional governance.

PRINCIPLES

Recognizing its role in a democratic society and its responsibility to the public, WCC asserts the following principles:

Freedom of Purpose: WCC has the liberty to define its educational objectives, institutional mission, and strategic priorities. These reflect the unique character of WCC as a community of learners committed to academic excellence, ethical values, and social responsibility.

Freedom of Governance: WCC independently formulates and enforces policies and decisions through its governing bodies, ensuring that they are free from undue external influence and align with institutional goals.

Freedom of Curriculum: WCC designs its curriculum and academic programs to meet the needs of its students and society while fostering a culture of creativity, inclusivity, and lifelong learning. These programs remain consistent with national and global standards of quality education.

Freedom of Inquiry: WCC provides an environment that supports intellectual exploration, research, and discourse among faculty, students, and staff without fear of repression or interference. This is fundamental to developing critical and independent thinkers.

Ethical Responsibility and Public Interest: While committed to academic freedom, WCC recognizes the need for restraint when the overriding public interest or ethical considerations demand accountability. WCC ensures its autonomy is exercised responsibly, with respect for human rights, societal well-being, and sustainable development goals.

IMPLEMENTATION

The Academic Council, in collaboration with the Office of the School President, oversee the implementation of this policy. Faculty members are empowered to develop academic programs, research, and teaching methods in alignment with WCC’s strategic priorities. Researchers are granted autonomy in selecting and conducting research projects, provided they adhere to ethical standards and institutional priorities. Mechanisms are established to protect academic decisions from undue influence by external entities. Regular evaluations ensure that the exercise of academic freedom aligns with WCC’s goals and public interest obligations.

REVIEW AND UPDATE

This policy is reviewed annually by the Academic Council to address emerging challenges and ensure its alignment with current educational and societal needs. Updates are disseminated to all stakeholders for compliance and awareness.