Ankur Shiv Bhandari, Nirpal Singh Paul Bhangal and Pratik Tarvadi are among 38 professionals from across different fields selected for the voting process that will elect the University of Oxford’s new Chancellor by next month.
They join veteran British politicians such as former Conservative Party leader Lord William Hague, fellow Tories Lord David Willetts and Dominic Grieve and former Labour politician Lord Peter Mandelson in a race to replace Lord Chris Patten, who is retiring after 21 years in the post. The incoming Chancellor will be in post for a fixed term of no more than 10 years in accordance with amendments to university statutes enacted earlier this year.
The Chancellor is the titular head of Oxford University and presides over several key ceremonies and also chairs the Committee to Elect the Vice-Chancellor. In addition to these formal duties, the Chancellor undertakes advocacy, advisory and fundraising work, acting as an ambassador for the university at a range of national and international events.
During the first round of voting, in the week commencing October 28, voters will have the opportunity to rank as many candidates as they choose. The top five candidates, who will be announced in the week commencing November 4, will proceed to the second round of voting – scheduled for the week commencing November 18. The University of Oxford’s new Chancellor will be announced in the week of November 25.
Ankur Shiv Bhandari
First-ever Indian-origin Mayor of Bracknell Forest, Berkshire (2022-23). He describes the University of Oxford as a temple of learning, research, and a beacon of history over many centuries.
He holds a Bachelor’s degree from India, an MBA from the United Kingdom, a Post-Graduate Diploma in Academic practice and is in the process of obtaining a Master’s degree in Law.
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Nirpal Singh Paul Bhangal
A Professor of International Entrepreneurship, a successful businessman and academic. He boasts of training Master’s and PhD students in Oxford on their spin-out ideas, held chair positions in Oxford Societies, made the first-ever independent film ‘Oxford University – the Untold Story’, a fly on the wall take of an academic year at Oxford.
“The Chancellor Chris Patten described me as a true innovator when we filmed him for the documentary, as no one before that had attempted such as feat. What we achieved in 10 months, would have taken Oxford several years due to its internal committees, inter department wranglings and endless review meetings,” he states.
Pratik Tarvadi
An MBBS degree foundation in medical science, specialisation in a Master’s in Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, followed by a PhD in Forensic Odontology. An additional MBA in Healthcare Services, offering critical insights into the management and administration of healthcare institutions.
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“As Chancellor of the University of Oxford, I would bring a vision of inclusivity, innovation, and global impact. Oxford is a beacon of academic excellence, and it is essential to build on this legacy by fostering an environment that encourages diversity and inclusivity. I believe that a diverse academic community is vital for fostering creativity, broadening perspectives, and driving innovation,” he states.
*Info: University of Oxford
