The University Council of the University of Warsaw addressed a letter to members of the academic community in which it outlined the process of selecting candidates for rector indicated by the Council. We publish the letter.
“Dear students, doctoral candidates and staff of the University of Warsaw,
In the current very trying times for us all due to the coronavirus epidemic, the University Council of the University of Warsaw wants to express our warm concern for the wellbeing of you all. We realise that you are all struggling with immediate concerns for family, friends and coworkers, and may be experiencing personal hardship.
We appreciate the fact that the University needs to press on with the election of the Rector. The University Council advises the Rector and the Senate of the University of Warsaw and indicates candidates for the position of the Rector. We offer our opinion in accordance with the University Statute.
To fulfil these obligations to the University, and to find the best possible candidates for the Rector, while ensuring transparency and good governance practices, at the end of the last year the University Council announced an open call for candidates. We invited candidates who:
- meet the formal conditions specified in § 30 of the Statute of UW,
- have a proven track record of high-level scientific achievement,
- have a proven track record of leadership and management of academic or research institutions,
- have a very good understanding of current strategic and operation matters concerning UW,
- know the science and higher education system in Poland,
- have a strategic vision for UW,
- and have a fluent command of Polish and English.
According to the adopted confidentiality of the selection procedure, the University Council revealed only the names of successful candidates.
The University Council regrets that not all candidates who considered running for the position of the Rector put their name forward to us. Regarding the best interest of the University, we would have liked to discuss the future of the University with all candidates for the position of the Rector.
The University Council received eight applications, and following extensive deliberations and interviews with the candidates, in line with the Statute of the University of Warsaw, the Council found that the two best candidates for the Rector were in the following order:
Prof. dr hab. Andrzej Tarlecki
Prof. dr hab. Aleksander Filip Żarnecki.
We appreciate the commitment of the Senate and Electors to secure a transparent and well-informed election process. The University Council looks forward to working with you all to promote further the community and best interests of the University of Warsaw.”
The University Council of the University of Warsaw