UB President, Santos Mahung, terminated

Since the beginning of the year Dr. Santos Mahung’s presidency at the University of Belize had been under fire. The Board of Trustees wrote to Prime Minister Dean Barrow on January thirteenth recommending his termination for among other reasons, failing to perform duties prescribed under the University of Belize Act. Mahung was also accused of gross misconduct after controversy broke in October 2009 over a proposed wage freeze. Both sides took their plight to the Prime Minister, who in April told News Five that the decision on Mahung’s fate would take some time. Well, on Thursday evening the Government announced Mahung’s termination, effective today. UB’s Public Information Officer, Selwyn King, spoke to News Five via phone but said he could not discuss the reasons for the termination.

Selwyn King, Public Information Officer, UB (Via Phone)

“I can only bring your attention to the Press release where it says mutually agreed and voluntary termination of the original agreement with Dr. Santos Mahung as President with effect October one, 2010.

santos mahung

We have Dr. Corinth Lewis who has been appointed to act as president of the University until such time that a substantive appointment can be made. As you’re aware, Dr. Lewis played a key role in the transition of UB. She has served as president of UB from 2003 to 2007. She is no stranger to UB. She is an extremely competent and capable person. She holds PhD in Psychology of Education from University of Alberta Canada. So she brings a wealth of experience.

corinth lewis

On behalf of the management and staff and my own behalf we wish to extend our heartfelt appreciation and best wishes to Doctor Mahung for his services and contribution.  We have been able, in terms of through the comprehensive and collectivity of the faculty and staff, to develop the UB strategic plan which is considered the roadmap for the University. So we look forward to continue the implementation that has been devised collectively by all, but spearheaded through the leadership of Doctor Mahung. So we recognize, like I pointed out before, he will always be remembered for his stewardship.”

Mahung took over as UB President in August 2007.