he regulation defines investment as “the activity of investing capital or funds into assets or financial instruments to generate future returns” within the university’s financial management scope (Article 4). This establishes a clear institutional mandate and structured approach to investment activities.

UNS embeds ethical and sustainability-oriented principles into its financial and investment governance. The regulation emphasizes that all financial management must be conducted in a manner that is “conducted responsibly with due regard to appropriateness and benefits for society” (Article 3 paragraph (1) point g; paragraph (8)). In addition, investments must adhere to the principles of transparency and accountability, ensuring that stakeholders have access to relevant financial information (Article 2). These principles align with the broader concept of responsible and impact-oriented investment.

To ensure financial sustainability, UNS implements a structured investment policy that prioritizes risk mitigation and long-term value creation. The regulation states that investment placement must comply with diversification principles and be allocated to low-risk, government-guaranteed financial instruments (Article 59). Permitted instruments include deposits, government bonds/sukuk, and mutual funds (Article 61), while high-risk and speculative instruments such as stocks, derivatives, and cryptocurrency are explicitly prohibited (Article 78). This reflects a cautious, responsible investment strategy that prioritizes financial stability over speculative gains.

Furthermore, UNS strengthens long-term sustainability by establishing an endowment fund (Dana Abadi). The regulation ensures that the principal fund is preserved, while only returns are used to support education, research, community engagement, and institutional development (Articles 70–73, 79). This approach guarantees intergenerational financial sustainability and continuous support for the university’s core missions.

Investment governance at UNS is supported by a clear institutional structure. The Rector serves as the ultimate authority in financial management (Article 9) and delegates implementation to the Vice Rector for Resources, who is responsible for developing policies and overseeing financial operations (Articles 10–12). Additionally, internal and external audit mechanisms are implemented to ensure accountability and compliance (Articles 64 and 123–124).

Importantly, investment returns are reinvested to create social and academic impact, including scholarships, research funding, infrastructure development, and community service programs (Article 62). This demonstrates that UNS investment practices are not solely profit-driven but are aligned with broader societal and sustainability objectives.

Overall, UNS demonstrates a strong institutional commitment to sustainable investment through a policy framework that integrates responsible governance, low-risk investment strategies, long-term financial sustainability via endowment funds, and reinvestment of returns for social impact. The regulation demonstrates a strong institutional commitment to responsible and sustainable investment through its embedded governance, accountability, and societal impact principles.

Evidence link: Rector Regulation No. 6 of 2025 on Fund Management