UNIVERSITY of Guyana’s Pro-Chancellor, Dr. Prem Misir yesterday 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.

Registrar, Mr Vincent Alexander told the Chronicle yesterday that the news has come as a complete surprise to many on campus, as when the Council met on April 26, there was no indication from Dr Misir that he had any intention of resigning.

This being the case, however, Mr Alexander said the Council is left no other alternative but to pursue the appointment of a Pro-Chancellor from among its ranks to replace Dr Misir.
He noted too that while the Council has not met as yet to discuss “the next move”, the news of Misir’s resignation has been circulated.

In the absence of a Chancellor, it is the Pro-Chancellor who assumes the responsibilities and functions of the Chancellor, hence the importance of an occupied post.

Dr Misir, who took up office on October 21, 2003, serving as UG’s Pro-Chancellor for four terms, explained to Council members that, “I think now is as good time as any to pursue my other professional career goals and interests in the service of this country.”
In his resignation letter, the Pro-Chancellor mentioned that “during my tenure, the University of Guyana made significant gains with the cooperation of the University Council, Committee of Deans, the University of Guyana Students Society and the People’s Progressive Party/Civic administration.”

(By Ravin Singh)