We mourn the profound loss of Sir Shridath Ramphal, a remarkable Caribbean Man and a leading international statesman. Sir Shridath’s expansive life ’s work and impact are aptly captured in his memoirs, Glimpses of a Global Life which together with Time for Change: a Report of the Caribbean Commission should be compulsory reading for all, especially Caribbean scholars, students, and diplomats.
His outstanding contributions at all stages of the regional movement in the Caribbean — from the short-lived West Indies Federation to CARIFTA and its blossoming into CARICOM now 50 years old, are all well documented. In addition, the seminal work of the West Indian Commission established by the CARICOM Heads of Government and which he chaired (1989) remains a prescient blueprint. Its recommendations to help the people of the West Indies prepare for the 21st century are still so relevant today.
As I reflect on Sir Shridath’s venerable life, his impact on me and my colleagues are enduring. I refer to those of us who witnessed at first hand his mesmerizing attributes as “Chairman of the Board”, his astuteness in fashioning cohesion out of divisiveness, his inspirational leadership, his commitment to success and his demonstration of humility even when the outcomes of his efforts called for a triumphant response. He was a trailblazer, a role model and a Renaissance figure whose legacy will remain undiminished.
The Council of the University of Guyana (UG) which I have the honour to chair, the Vice Chancellor Professor Paloma Mohamed Martin, the Senior Management Staff, Alumni and friends of UG join me in celebrating the life of this extraordinary man, our former Chancellor (1990-1992). We extend our deepest sympathy to his children, other members of his family and the extended global family whose lives he touched.
Edward Greene
Chancellor of University of Guyana and
Board Member of Diplomats without Borders
