The National Superintendency of Higher University Education (Sunedu) has imposed a sanction against César Vallejo University (UCV)property of Cesar Acuna. The fine, which amounts to S/ 193,251.38is due to the improper payment of royalties for a total of S/ 1,894,737.00 to the founder of the university, under the concept of use of the “Learn More Travel and Tourism” brand. Sunedu has determined that these payments did not contribute to the educational purposes of the institution.
These actions have been classified under an infraction classified in section 5.1 of the Annex to the Regulation of Infractions and Sanctions of Sunedu, established by the Supreme Decree No. 005-2019-MINEDU. Although a sanction had previously been imposed on the UCV for similar payments made in the years 2017 and 2018, said sanction was annulled due to the expiration of the term that the administration has to determine the existence of infractions, according to the payments that amounted to S/ 1,263,157.80.
The official document obtained reflects Sunedu’s position regarding the practices of the UCV, highlighting the importance of university expenses aligning with the educational objectives of the institution. The case has aroused interest in the educational and legal field, evidencing the need for greater control and transparency in the financial management of universities.
The Cesar Vallejo University will have the option to avail of the benefit of I’ll pay soonwhich implies a 25% reduction on the amount of the penalty, as long as it complies with the established requirements and do not file an appeal some cagainst the resolution.
Additionally, Sunedu has established that, if prompt payment of the fine is not verified and it is approved, the fine will be spontaneous payment of the entire fine imposed. The financial entity designated for payment is the National bank, providing the specific details for the transaction. This measure seeks to guarantee compliance with the sanctions imposed and promote the proper management of resources within educational institutions, ensuring that they are used for purposes that directly contribute to the improvement and fulfillment of university objectives.
The improper payments for “royalties” linked to the use of the Know More Travel and Tourism brand were made in a period that includes the years 2019 to 2021. These disbursements, made in favor of Cesar Acunaowner of the brand, have been determined as not linked to a university purpose, compromising the economic sustainability of the institution.
The analysis carried out by the Sunedu revealed that, although there was a contract signed between the UCV and Acuna for the use of the brand from the 2016and renovations in subsequent years, the funds allocated for this purpose represented an average of 79.33% of the Agency’s total expenses, despite reporting constant losses during the years evaluated.
This management has been considered lacking the diligence required by the University Lawwhich stipulates the use of university assets exclusively for educational and university purposes, supporting the decision to apply the aforementioned sanction.
Throughout the process, the UCV defended the legality of its actions, arguing that the payments made were within the framework of legitimate commercial activity and that the royalty contract itself did not constitute infringement. However, the supervisory body concluded that the lack of benefits, both economic and non-economic, and the absence of corrective actions in the face of negative results, meant negligent management contrary to the principles stipulated in the law.
The university’s defense, which described the supervision of the Sunedu As an interventionist, it was rejected, the entity stating that its action sought to verify compliance with the regulations without interfering with university autonomy.
