All institutions of higher learning in the State are authorized to procure liability insurance in amounts deemed reasonable and necessary by their respective boards of trustees for the benefit and protection of employees who may be liable to third persons who are injured or killed or whose property is damaged as a result of negligence of the employee in the performance of his or her regularly assigned duties. Provided, that such insurance shall not include physicians’ and dentists’ professional (malpractice) liability insurance coverage.

The premiums on all insurance contracts as herein authorized shall be paid from funds of the institution concerned and shall be considered a part of the general expense of that institution.

Actions brought for damages or injury covered by the insurance authorized by this section shall be brought directly against the individuals insured by such policies and neither the State nor the particular institution concerned shall be a party to such action nor shall any provision of this section be construed as a waiver of the State’s general immunity from liability and suit.