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GIBT

Freedom of Information Policy – Gema Institute of Business & Technology (Pvt) Ltd 

Policy Number   : GQAPO007-GIBT

Approved date   : 22 January 2024

Last Reviewed    : February 2024

 

  1. Introduction

1.1 GIBT Campus  recognizes the importance of transparency and accountability in its operations and is committed to upholding the principles of freedom of information. This Freedom of Information Policy outlines our commitment to facilitating access to information held by the university, in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

 

  1. Scope

2.1 This policy applies to all information held by GIBT Campus, regardless of format or medium, and covers requests for access to information made under freedom of information legislation or regulations.

 

  1. Principles

3.1 GIBT Campus is guided by the following principles in relation to freedom of information:

  1. Transparency: GIBT Campus shall strive to provide access to information held by the university, subject to any applicable exemptions or restrictions.
  2. Accountability: Access to information promotes accountability and enables stakeholders to make informed decisions and participate in democratic processes.
  3. Compliance: GIBT Campus shall comply with all applicable freedom of information laws, regulations, and guidelines.
  4. Privacy: Access to personal information shall be managed in accordance with data protection laws and regulations, ensuring the privacy and confidentiality of individuals’ personal data.
  5. Timeliness: Requests for information shall be processed promptly, and responses shall be provided within the timeframe prescribed by law or regulation.

 

  1. Responsibilities

4.1 The Vice-Chancellor has overall responsibility for overseeing compliance with this Freedom of Information Policy.

4.2 The FOI Officer, appointed by GIBT Campus, is responsible for coordinating and managing freedom of information requests and ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

 

 

 

  1. Access to Information

5.1 Members of the public, including students, staff, faculty, and other stakeholders, may request access to information held by GIBT Campus by submitting a written request to the FOI Officer.

5.2 Requests shall be processed in accordance with the relevant freedom of information legislation or regulations, and access shall be provided to the extent permitted by law.

 

  1. Exemptions and Exceptions

6.1 Certain categories of information may be exempt from disclosure under freedom of information laws, including but not limited to:

  1. Information subject to legal privilege.
  2. Personal information protected by privacy laws.
  3. Information that could harm national security, public safety, or law enforcement efforts.
  4. Commercially sensitive information.
  5. Academic or research materials in certain circumstances.

6.2 Where exemptions apply, GIBT Campus shall provide reasons for withholding information and advise requesters of their right to appeal the decision.

 

  1. Fees

7.1 GIBT Campus may charge reasonable fees for processing freedom of information requests, as permitted by law or regulation.

7.2 Fees shall be calculated in accordance with applicable guidelines and shall be waived or reduced in certain circumstances, such as for individuals experiencing financial hardship.

 

  1. Review and Appeals

8.1 Requesters dissatisfied with the handling of their freedom of information request may seek internal review or appeal to the relevant oversight body or information commissioner, as provided for by law or regulation.

8.2 GIBT Campus shall cooperate fully with the review or appeals process and shall implement any recommendations or decisions made by the relevant authority.

 

 

 

  1. Training and Awareness

9.1 GIBT Campus shall provide training and guidance to staff, faculty, and other relevant individuals on their obligations and responsibilities under freedom of information laws and regulations.

 

  1. Record Keeping

10.1 GIBT Campus shall maintain accurate records of freedom of information requests received, responses provided, and any decisions or actions taken in relation to such requests.