Hawaii 2025 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SCR138

Introduced
3/7/25  
Refer
3/12/25  
Report Pass
3/24/25  
Refer
3/24/25  
Engrossed
3/31/25  
Refer
4/4/25  
Report Pass
4/11/25  
Refer
4/11/25  

Caption

Requesting The Auditor To Conduct A Management And Performance Audit Of The Office Of The Vice President For Academic Strategy Of The University Of Hawaii.

Impact

The resolution calls for an assessment focused on several key areas: the effectiveness of the Hawaii P-20 Partnerships for Education in creating workforce pipelines, the alignment of educational programs with state industry requirements, and the efficacy of transfer agreements between educational institutions. By identifying strengths and weaknesses within these areas, the audit is expected to provide actionable recommendations aimed at enhancing educational outcomes and better preparing students for the workforce. This could lead to significant changes in how educational programs are structured and delivered across Hawaii.

Summary

Senate Concurrent Resolution 138 (SCR138) seeks to enhance the operational effectiveness of the University of Hawaii's Office of the Vice President for Academic Strategy through a detailed management and performance audit. The purpose of this audit is to assess the existing policies, programs, and initiatives responsible for overseeing academic quality and workforce alignment, ensuring that they meet state economic demands. By scrutinizing these elements, the bill aims to establish clearer pathways from education to employment within the state's job market, emphasizing the importance of alignment between educational outcomes and industry needs.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SCR138 appears to be constructive. Supporters emphasize the necessity of ensuring that the University of Hawaii remains responsive to the demands of the state's economic landscape. Advocates argue that the proposed audit will help achieve greater transparency and accountability within the university's operations. Conversely, while opposition to the bill is not explicitly documented, any concerns would likely revolve around the cost and implications of such audits on educational autonomy and governance, with potential fears over resource allocation or administrative overhead.

Contention

A noteworthy consideration surrounding SCR138 could involve the potential resistance from educational stakeholders who may view the audit as intrusive or questioning the integrity of current academic structures. There may also be debates regarding the criteria used to measure academic performance and workforce readiness, and whether these metrics adequately reflect the diverse needs of students and the community. Ultimately, SCR138 holds the promise of fostering a more tailored educational framework but also raises essential questions about accountability and autonomy in higher education.

Companion Bills

HI SR155

Same As Requesting The Auditor To Conduct A Management And Performance Audit Of The Office Of The Vice President For Academic Strategy Of The University Of Hawaii.

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