Indian-origin candidates vying for the prestigious position of Chancellor at Oxford University.

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The University of Oxford announced on Wednesday the selection of 38 finalists vying for the position of new Chancellor, a list that features candidates of Indian descent while notably omitting former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan. Among the contenders are Ankur Shiv Bhandari, who holds the distinction of being the first Indian-origin Mayor of Bracknell Forest in Berkshire; Nirpal Singh Paul Bhangal, a Professor specializing in International Entrepreneurship; and Pratik Tarvadi, a medical professional. They will compete against a diverse group of academics, politicians, philanthropists, and entrepreneurs, including prominent figures such as former Conservative Party leader Lord William Hague and former Labour politician Lord Peter Mandelson. Khan’s exclusion from the list is attributed to disqualification during the selection process, as determined by the Chancellor’s Election Committee, which evaluated applications based on four specific exclusion criteria outlined in the university’s regulations. According to a statement from the university, all applicants have been informed of the outcomes of their submissions. Candidates for this honorary position were required to exhibit exceptional accomplishments in their respective fields, alongside the capacity to earn respect beyond those domains.

Furthermore, they needed to demonstrate a profound understanding of the university’s research and academic objectives, its global community, and its aspirations to maintain its status as a leading institution for research and education, as well as the capability and willingness to enhance the university’s reputation on local, national, and international stages.The university has not provided specific reasons for the disqualifications of individual candidates; however, some experts have suggested that Khan’s criminal convictions in his home country could render him ineligible for the position, despite his status as a former Oxford alumnus. Members of the Convocation at this prestigious institution, which includes both staff and alumni of Oxford University, are set to participate in an online vote to select a successor for Lord Patten, the former governor of Hong Kong, who will conclude his 21-year tenure as Chancellor at the end of Trinity Term 2024.  Inthe initial voting round, scheduled for the week beginning October 28, participants will have the chance to rank multiple candidates. The five candidates receiving the highest rankings will be revealed in the week starting November 4 and will advance to a second voting round planned for the week of November 18.

The announcement of the new Chancellor of the University of Oxford is expected during the week of November 25. The newly appointed Chancellor will serve a fixed term not exceeding ten years, as per recent amendments to the university’s statutes. This role entails being the ceremonial head of Oxford University, overseeing significant ceremonies, and chairing the Committee to Elect the Vice-Chancellor. Beyond these formal responsibilities, the Chancellor also engages in advocacy, advisory, and fundraising activities, representing the university at various national and international events.