Ceremonies to install the new President of the University of Belize were held yesterday. Dr. Santos Mahung is now the third President of the University of Belize. Events were held throughout yesterday to mark the occasion, and in the afternoon alone, three ministers - including acting Prime Minister Vildo Marin and the Head of State Sir Colville Young were in attendance. The highlight came later in the afternoon at the installation ceremony at the UB Gymnasium where the Governor General presented the University of Belize silver medallion to Dr. Mahung.
Dr. Louis Zabaneh, Chairman - UB
"A symbol of your authority and responsibility is the silver medallion of the University of Belize which is presented to you by His Excellency the Governor General of Belize Sir Colville Young...Ladies and gentlemen I present to you Dr. Santos Mahung, new President of the University of Belize."
Dr. Santos Mahung, President - University of Belize
"My job is to now as President, give focus and urgent attention to the development of the University with the objective of making the University of Belize a respected smaller university in the region and a university which responds to the needs and aspirations of higher education and development in Belize."
And the biggest news of the day came from Education Minister Francis Fonseca. Speaking earlier on at a signing ceremony he announced that government would be introducing its subvention to UB by $1.5 million dollars in the next financial year. It could be interpreted as slightly reckless considering he may or may not be a part of that next government but Fonseca said that it's part of government's commitment to UB.
Hon. Francis Fonseca, Minister of Education
"We must collaborate on the development of a structured sustainable student loan program at concessionary rates. No Belizean who desires and has the capacity for higher education should be denied that opportunity for lack of funding. In addition, I am pleased to announce today that the annual subvention provided by government to the University of Belize which now stands at $8.5 million will be increased to $10 million in fiscal year 2008/2009."
Of the $1.5 million, the Ministry stipulates that $500,000 must be used to develop a 10 year strategic plan, and the remaining $1 million must be split up between a new bookstore, a technology park, and courses in history and agribusiness. Natural Resources Minister also used the occasion to hand over the title for 250 acres at the Belmopan campus, expanding its total acreage to 950.
