Leadership Transition at UTech, Jamaica

Professor Colin Gyles Appointed Acting President

The Pro- Chancellor of the University of Technology, Jamaica (UTech, Ja) Mr Richard Powell today advised that in light of the impending expiration of the tenure of Professor Stephen Vasciannie, CD, as President of the University on April 2, 2020, the Council of the University of Technology, Jamaica at its meeting held on March 25, 2020  approved the recommendation from the Joint Committee of the Academic Board and the Council for the appointment of Professor Colin Gyles, Deputy President as Acting President. The appointment will take effect on April 3, 2020 until the appointment of a President or such earlier date as the Council shall determine.  

As Acting President, Professor Gyles will carry out the functions of President as the chief academic and administrative officer of the University, reporting directly to the Council, through its Chairman, the Pro- Chancellor and will be principally responsible for implementing the Council’s policies.

Professor Colin Gyles has led a successful career as a lecturer, multidisciplinary scientist and academic administrator for over 30 years. He has been serving as Deputy President of the University of Technology, Jamaica (UTech, Ja.) since January 2015. During his tenure, he served as Acting President from August 2015 to December 2016.

Associate Professor Haldane Johnson Appointed Acting Deputy President

During the transitional period, Associate Professor Dr. Haldane Johnson has been appointed Acting Deputy President.  The appointment will take effect on April 3, 2020.  Dr Johnson comes to the post as the current Associate Vice President, Teaching & Learning, a position he has held since January 1, 2018. Since September 2011 he was appointed as the Associate Vice President for Undergraduate Studies which included a 17-month period as Acting Deputy President.

Acting Deputy President, Associate Professor Johnson will head the Academic Affairs Division of the University and shall be directly responsible to the Acting President for the development, co-ordination and implementation of curricula and instruction within the University.  He will also be responsible for academic leadership by ensuring that academic planning and delivery with respect to curricula, teaching, research, creative activities and related academic service requirements are met in the Colleges and Faculties and areas of Academic Management.

The University Community congratulates Professor Colin Gyles and Associate Professor Haldane Johnson on their acting appointments and extends to them its full support.

 End.

Contact:
Michelle Beckford (Mrs.)
Corporate Communications Manager
University of Technology, Jamaica
Telephone: 970-5299
Email: mbeckford@utech.edu.jm