“Ideological tests, affirmations, and oaths, including diversity statements,” will be banned from admissions and employment processes for both students and faculty, USG’s Board of Regents said in their agenda, published November 12.
Instead of being diverse or sharing the mainstream political views, “the basis and determining factor” for employment will be “that the individual possesses the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities associated with the role, and is believed to have the ability to successfully perform the essential functions, responsibilities, and duties associated with the position for which the individual is being considered.”
“No applicant for admission shall be asked to or required to affirmatively ascribe to or opine about political beliefs, affiliations, ideals, or principles, as a condition for admission,” the new policies state.
“The proposed revisions among other things would make clear that student admissions and employee hiring should be based on a person’s qualifications, not his or her beliefs.”