The General Council is one of the governing bodies of the Polytechnic University of Lisbon. It has 33 members:
- 17 professors and researchers
- 5 students
- 1 non-teaching staff member
- 10 invited external members
He external members help strengthen Polytechnic University of Lisbon’s connection to the wider community, particularly in the professional and business fields linked to the areas of study and activity of its schools. Their contribution supports strong, practice-oriented higher education.
One of the General Council’s most important responsibilities is electing the President of Polytechnic University of Lisbon. It also proposes initiatives considered necessary for the proper functioning of the institution. Upon proposal of the Polytechnic University of Lisbon Academic Federation, it elects the Student Ombudsman and approves the regulations governing that role. The General Council also authorises the creation of consortia and ratifies the student disciplinary regulations.
Following a proposal from the President of Polytechnic University of Lisbon, the General Council approves and monitors the implementation of the activity plan and the action plan for the President’s four-year term. It is also responsible for approving the institution’s general guidelines in scientific, pedagogical, financial and asset-related matters. In addition, it may create, transform, divide, merge or close organisational units.
The General Council is also responsible for approving budget proposals and consolidated annual accounts. It has the authority to set tuition fees, propose or authorise the acquisition or disposal of institutional property, and approve credit operations.
The General Council meets four times a year. The President of Polytechnic University of Lisbon may be invited to attend meetings whenever their presence is considered relevant, but does not have voting rights.