Posted on: Thursday, March 17, 2005

UH takes stand on research issues

By Beverly Creamer
Advertiser Education Writer

The University of Hawai'i-Manoa Faculty Senate reaffirmed its long-standing opposition to classified research on campus by passing a new resolution yesterday.

A second measure opposing establishment of a Navy research center at the university failed.

Faculty members demanded more information about the proposed Navy University Affiliated Research Center from the administration, especially after one faculty member suggested it is possible to have a Navy UARC that doesn't accept classified research.

Manoa chancellor Peter Englert has said this is possible.

The debate over classified research at the university has heightened in intensity in the past few months as Manoa looks at establishing a five-year contract with the Navy, opening the door to $50 million worth of contracts.

Opposition centers around concerns about increased militarism, loss of transparency in the research establishment, moral opposition to weapons research and Native Hawaiian concerns about tainting sacred lands.

Proponents, meanwhile, argue for their right to do research on what they wish, and the potential expansion for the university's entire research infrastructure.

Englert will return to the Board of Regents for final approval of the Navy UARC next fall, after public meetings and consultation with campus groups. Three forums are scheduled in the Architecture auditorium: April 6 at 2 p.m., April 7 at 3 p.m. and April 21 at 3 p.m.

Reach Beverly Creamer at bcreamer@honoluluadvertiser.com or 525-8013.