His Excellency President Dr Irfaan Ali said that Sir Ronald Saunders brings “an exceptional record” to the post of Chancellor of the University of Guyana.
The office of Chancellor became vacant following the completion of the distinguished tenure of Professor John Edward Greene.
President Ali, on behalf of the Government of Guyana, extended sincere appreciation to Professor Greene, noting his valuable contribution to the University’s development and standing.
He also noted that the Council of the University of Guyana has elected Sir Ronald Sanders as the Chancellor, whom he described as a eminent choice.
“Sir Ronald brings to this role an exceptional record of scholarship, public service, and international engagement that aligns closely with the University’s aspirations for academic excellence and global visibility.”
The President also lauded Sir Ronald’s international stature and the integral role he has played over the decades.
He said Sir Ronald’s experience in multilateral diplomacy, his scholarship on small states, and his sustained engagement with leading global policy institutions reflect a depth of intellect, credibility, and international respect that will further enhance the academic stature and global reach of the University of Guyana.
President Ali also underscored the importance of this appointment at a pivotal time for Guyana’s development.
“At a moment of major investment in human capital, Sir Ronald’s leadership will strengthen the University’s role at the heart of Guyana’s emerging knowledge economy….The Government of Guyana welcomes the appointment of Sir Ronald Sanders as Chancellor of the University of Guyana.”
Sir Ronald Sanders is a former Visiting Fellow at the University of Oxford. He holds a Master’s degree in International Relations from the University of Sussex and has been awarded an Honorary Doctor of Letters by the University of the West Indies and an Honorary Doctor of Laws by the University of Guyana.
He has served as Senior Research Fellow at the Institute of Commonwealth Studies, University of London, and as Senior Fellow at Massey College, University of Toronto. He was Rapporteur of a Special Committee appointed by the Vice-Chancellor of the University of London on the future of the Commonwealth Institute and was an elected member of the Executive Board of UNESCO.
Internationally, Sir Ronald is recognised as one of the Caribbean’s most accomplished diplomats. He currently serves as Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to the United States and the Organisation of American States, and has served an unprecedented three terms as President of its Permanent Council.