Andorra's PS Proposes Amendments for Equitable Higher Education Reform

The Social Democratic Parliamentary Group (PS) has submitted amendments to Andorra's Higher Education Law reform bill, seeking to strengthen university autonomy, quality safeguards, and equal access while requiring parliamentary approval for new institutions.

Key proposals emphasize equitable entry to higher studies, ensuring economic status, socioeconomic factors, disabilities, or other personal or social conditions do not block university admission. The changes would bolster the functional, technical, and scientific independence of the Andorran Higher Education Quality Agency (AQUA), enabling it to handle evaluations, accreditations, and quality assurance without external pressure.

For academic personnel, the PS calls for clearer definitions of professional categories, including associate professors limited to those with proven expertise. To address precarious employment, the amendments include multi-year planning to secure teaching continuity and a core of stable staff.

Universities and authorized public or private higher education centers would receive greater autonomy, including the ability to sign dual or multiple degree agreements directly. Agreements issuing Andorran state titles, however, would need prior AQUA approval.

A central demand is that creating any new public or private university require a specific law approved by the Consell General, rather than relying solely on government decree. This shift would enhance legal certainty, transparency, and oversight by shifting authority from executive decision to parliamentary process.

Overall, the PS measures aim to build a robust, inclusive higher education system with independent quality controls, stable staffing, and accountable institutional growth.