Georgetown: University of Guyana’s Pro-Chancellor; Dr. Prem Misir tendered his resignation, effective June 2, 2014, one year ahead of the completion of his tenure, which ends on October 31, 2015. Council members were apprised of his decision by way of a letter of resignation, dated May 6. Based on the Constitution of Guyana, the Pro-Chancellor is elected by the University’s Council from among members of the very Council to hold that office for a period prescribed by the statutes. However, in the absence of a Chancellor, as in the case at UG, the Pro-Chancellor is also tasked with functioning in the capacity of Chancellor.
The Chancellor has the responsibility to function as Head and Chief Officer of the University and President of its Council and Guild of Graduates.
Moreover, Misir’s resignation will put pressure on the University to either urgently fill the void that will be left when his resignation takes effect, or to hire a Chancellor.
The University has been without a Chancellor since the resignation of Professor Compton Bourne in 2012, whose appointment had attracted much opposition from university staffers. In fact, his resignation was tendered even as university staffers staged picket action outside the office of the Pro-Chancellor.
But according to Alexander yesterday, he is not aware that the resignation of Dr. Misir is linked to any controversial issue. In fact he intimated that one of the reasons cited by Dr. Misir for his resignation is that he is “moving on”.
Alexander said that Misir’s resignation comes several months ahead of the official conclusion of his contract in October.
The Registrar noted that the University will be seeking to vigorously ensure that Dr. Misir, before his departure, is able to affix his signature to all certificates of those who graduated at the University’s 2013 Convocation.
According to Alexander, a replacement for the position of Pro-Chancellor has not yet been considered since the matter has not come up for discussion at the level of Council. He however noted that currently a search is on for a new Chancellor.
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