#BTSpeakingOut No individual is greater or more valuable than institutions

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the author(s) do not represent the official position of Barbados TODAY.

by John Beale

Recently there have been a number of articles written about the existing fiasco at the UWI (The University of the West Indies) regarding the outlandish action of the Vice Chancellor (CEO), Sir

Hilary Beckles, appointing an extraordinary committee to investigate the role played by his boss the Chancellor (Chairman of the board) Robert Bermudez concerning his successful contract renewal.

The UWI is certainly a gem in the Caribbean as the leader of a successful and important learning institution with many proud graduates for some 74 years.

Despite its fine reputation it is facing serious financial issues and it cannot entertain a drawn-out conflict of a completely unconstitutional, ultra vires and post facto inquiry whose outcome can do no good to the on-going interest of The UWI. In fact, it could possibility lead to further divisions that could affect the continuance of the institution.
Crises in the past have almost led to a tragic breakup and it would be a “shame and scandal” if Jamaica, whose government did not support Sir Hilary’s reappointment, were to separate from the UWI.

The Editorial of the Nation on January 10 “Pay attention to UWI” implored political parties in the Barbados campaign trail to discuss the matter. While this seems to be a reasonable suggestion it is highly unlikely that any politician will have the courage to touch this issue.

In all my experience from being on many corporate boards in the region I cannot imagine a situation like this would be tolerated. Is it possible that UWI suffers from political intervention due to governments involvement/interference that some people think that this kind of behaviour is okay? Well, it is not. How is it possible to set up a committee to report to yourself regarding your boss and board of directors? Perhaps a win/win solution is to relieve Sir Hilary as Vice-Chancellor of UWI and to promote him to dedicate his full efforts to his primary goal re the legacy of reparations.

A desire for the time for this may be the explanation for his extraordinary action.

On the other hand, Robert Bermudez can concentrate his energy on the improvement of the financial situation of UWI. He is known to be a true professional of the highest calibre who understands finance and the successful running of businesses.

John Beale, former Ambassador to the US, international banker and a director of various companies.