Popular University of Cesar responds to statements by the Secretary of Transparency

In a public pronouncement, the Popular University of Cesar, responded to the statements made by the Secretary of Transparency of the Presidency, Andrés Idárga, who pointed out alleged anomalies in the contractual and administrative processes of the institution. The University considered it necessary to clarify several of the statements by containing “inaccuracies that affect the institutional image.”

The University pointed out that, by virtue of its state university nature, it is governed by a special regime of contracting based on private law, as established in article 93 of Law 30 of 1992. He added that its regulatory framework is contained in Agreement No. 021 of September 30, 2024, so the General Statute of Contracting of the Public Administration does not apply.

As for the alleged lack of transparency in hiring, the University said that all contracts have been published on its official website and on the Secop II platform, including the stages of the process. They point out that this practice is in accordance with its contracting statute and allows each contract to be verified, even those indicated by the Secretary.

Regarding the questions about alleged cost overruns in the purchase of technological equipment, the UPC said that contracts or dates were not specified, so it is not possible to answer promptly. However, the current administration claimed to have strict controls to verify prices, with the support of an interdisciplinary team, and reiterated its willingness to deliver documents and supports that are required.

The institution was emphatic in clarifying that it has not initiated any contractual process related to studies or designs for block J. They pointed out that the only action was to inform the Ministry of Education about the need for the project, and authorize its hiring through Findeter, an entity that currently leads the process under an inter -administrative agreement.

Faced with insinuations on improper use of resources in a “academic improvement school” directed by Esmelin Romero Ramírez, alleged brother of the rector, the university explained that this school is part of its academic structure and fulfills essential functions for the access of students. They indicated that it is self -sustainable, generates profits and that the director does not handle resources. In addition, Romero has been a plant official for more than 23 years, long before the current rectory.

On the supply contract for the biomedical center of the Bachelor of Physical Education program, the University clarified that the end date was not on April 21 as indicated, but on May 20, 2024. They explained that, since it is a supply contract, its execution is reflected in a single day, which explains the “Advance 0%” if the verification was made before delivery.

Finally, they reiterated their willingness to collaborate with all the authorities, but requested that the information be managed rigorously, so as not to affect the process of recovering their institutional image or discrediting the work of its members.

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