Former Prime Minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan, has applied to become the next Chancellor of Oxford University in the UK. Despite being in jail, Imran, an alumnus of Oxford, is set to contest for the position of Chancellor of the prestigious university. This announcement by his party follows the resignation of the last British Governor of Hong Kong, Chris Patten, in February, who stepped down from the Chancellor position.
However, Imran Khan is currently imprisoned due to several charges, including corruption. According to reports, he will contest the chancellor elections at Oxford from jail through an online ballot.
Who Can Become the University's Chancellor?
According to the Oxford University website, "Until 1201, the university was headed by the 'Magister Scholarium (head of a religious school) Oxonie', which was later given the title of Chancellor in 1214."
The Chancellor serves as a ceremonial leader with no executive responsibilities. However, the role includes providing 'supportive and useful advice and guidance' to the university, presiding over some official events, and helping to resolve disputes within the University's governing body.
The Chancellor must remain readily available throughout the year. However, there is no requirement for the Chancellor to reside at the university. The role is unpaid, but all travel and related expenses are covered.
Graduates of Oxford University, especially those who have become leaders, have the opportunity to run for the position of Chancellor. Imran Khan is an Oxford graduate, holding a degree in Economics and Politics from Keble College in 1972. He also served as the Chancellor of the University of Bradford from 2005 to 2014.
Also Read: Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan to Contest for Chancellor Position at Oxford University
How is the Chancellor Elected at Oxford University?
For the first time, Oxford University is conducting elections online, according to reports. Candidates participating in the election must meet several criteria.
Candidates must have achieved outstanding accomplishments in their field.
They should be committed to upholding the university's mission of research and academic excellence while supporting its global community and world-class research status.
They should have the ability and desire to enhance the university's reputation locally, nationally, and internationally.
The Chancellor of Oxford University is elected by the Convocation, a body of all former students who have been admitted to a degree (excluding honorary degrees).
Another entity that participates in the voting is the Congregation, the university's governing body, functioning as its 'parliament.' It has over 5,000 members, including academic staff, heads of college governing bodies, senior researchers, computing, library, and administrative staff.