Advisory committees in postgraduate courses in public universities in Mexico. Scoping normative review

Abstract

In point 2 of paragraph b) of section 6, corresponding to the characteristics of the evaluation elements contemplated within the evaluation criteria of the National System of Researchers in force since 2023, it was established that participation in Advisory committees is considered a valid element of activities to strengthen and consolidate the community of humanities, science, technology, and innovation.
However, the legal ordinance lacks clarity regarding the definition of "Advisory committee" This research analyzed the regulations applicable to postgraduate programs in public universities of Mexican states using a scoping normative review methodology.
The results indicate a lack of uniformity in implementing this collegiate body, primarily due to each public institution of higher education (IES) exercising university autonomy, which enables the independent establishment of its normative, academic, or administrative regulations.
Strengthening the normative framework that regulates tutorial committees in Mexican IES is necessary. Establishing clear criteria for their terminology, constitution, and operation is essential to guaranteeing equity in the evaluation and academic recognition processes.