The Vice-Chancellor (VC) of the University of Technology (Unitech) in Lae, Dr. Albert Schram, has been sacked by the university council after only a couple of months in the position. Dr. Schram was appointed earlier this year following the resignation of the former VC, Dr. Misty Baloiloi, who left to contest the coming general elections.
Reasons for the Sacking
- Reports in The National state that Dr. Schram was sacked because he planned several changes, including the decommissioning of a Masters Program in Electrical Engineering, downsizing the council from 25 to 12 members, and reducing programs in each department.
- However, the Post Courier’s “The Drum” column suggested that Dr. Schram may have discovered major problems within the administration.
Student and Staff Reaction
The decision to sack the VC has triggered strong reactions, with students and staff protesting against the move.
- Over 3,000 students boycotted classes and marched to the administration building to demand an explanation for the sacking.
- The protesters have issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Chancellor Philip Stagg, Registrar Allan Sako, and members of the council to reverse the decision.
- In addition to demanding a reversal, the students also called for an investigation into all the university administration accounts.
This situation has put the university’s leadership under intense scrutiny as the academic community awaits the council’s next move.