Sir Ronald Sanders takes helm as UG’s 14th Chancellor

Sir Ronald Sanders

The University of Guyana (UG) has appointed Sir Ronald Sanders as its 14th Chancellor, the institution announced on Friday, marking a historic addition to the leadership of the country’s premier tertiary institution.
Sir Sanders, a veteran diplomat and former broadcast journalist, succeeds a line of distinguished Chancellors at a time when UG seeks to expand its programmes, research capacity, and international partnerships.
Currently serving as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Antigua and Barbuda to the United States and the Organization of American States (OAS), Sir Sanders has also twice held the post of High Commissioner to the United Kingdom and served as Ambassador to the European Union and the World Trade Organization.
A native of Guyana, he began his career in journalism and broadcasting, rising to become General Manager of the Guyana Broadcasting Service at age 25. He has since built a reputation as a leading Caribbean intellectual voice, with syndicated commentaries that address governance, justice, and regional cooperation.
During his diplomatic career, Sir Sanders has held multiple prominent roles, including elected member of the UNESCO Executive Board, rapporteur of the Commonwealth Eminent Persons Group, chairman of the Caribbean Action Task Force against money laundering and terrorist financing (CFATF), and chair of the OAS Permanent Council on three occasions. He has also been an outspoken advocate for democracy and constitutional order in Guyana.
His honours include awards from four nations, an Honorary Doctorate of Letters from the University of the West Indies, and in November 2025, a Distinguished Honorary Doctor of Laws from the University of Guyana.
As Chancellor, Sir Sanders will serve as the principal link between the university, government, and international stakeholders.
Education Minister Sonia Parag, Pro-Chancellor Professor Randolph Persaud, and Vice-Chancellor Professor Paloma Mohamed Martin welcomed the appointment, expressing confidence that Sir Sanders’ experience will strengthen the university and contribute to national development.