Independent Investigation and Review of Hiring Practices of Professors at Autonomous Universities

Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim asked the Minister for Education in light of SMU's review of its vetting procedures on academic integrity, whether the Ministry will consider launching an independent investigation and review into the hiring practices of professors at the Autonomous Universities.

The Autonomous Universities (AUs) exercise due diligence in hiring and have in place processes to ensure the quality of hires. For instance, academic hires are subject to a rigorous appointment process with reviews at multiple levels, including verification of academic credentials. Such verification is done through referee letters, checks with appropriate third parties tapping on the AUs’ faculty networks as well as vetting agencies. AUs also conduct checks with journals and publishers to verify candidates’ publications. If relevant new information is subsequently surfaced, the AUs will conduct further checks and take appropriate action as necessary, including rescinding the job offer or terminating employment if the individual is already hired.