The Chancellor of the University of Guyana, Sir Ronald Sanders, announced today that the University Council has received twenty-seven applications for the position of Vice-Chancellor and Principal.
The applications follow an extensive and widely circulated international search conducted by a Council-appointed Search Committee, which invited submissions up to the closing date of April 18, 2026. The Committee will now proceed to the next stage of the process, involving the careful review of applications and the shortlisting of candidates.
The current Vice-Chancellor’s tenure will conclude in July 2026, after seven years of service.
The Chancellor confirmed that the Search Committee is applying the same procedures that were used in the selection of the present Vice-Chancellor, ensuring continuity, fairness, and adherence to established standards of governance.
In commenting on the significance of the appointment, Sir Ronald noted that the University is operating within a national context of profound transformation. Guyana is undergoing one of the most dynamic periods of economic growth and structural change in the Caribbean and Latin America. Expansion in energy production, infrastructure modernisation, economic diversification, and increasing global engagement are reshaping national priorities and workforce demands.
“In these circumstances,” the Chancellor stated, “the University of Guyana must play a leading role in developing advanced human capital, strengthening research capacity, fostering innovation, and contributing independent expertise to national and regional development.”
He added that the Council is seeking a transformational academic leader who can position the University as a centre of research excellence, professional training, and regional influence in a rapidly evolving economy.
The Chancellor further advised that the Council is committed to transparency in the process and will keep the public informed of key developments. This will include announcements regarding shortlisted candidates and the scheduling of public lectures, which will form an important part of the assessment process.
