Gratis University is committed to leadership continuity, institutional stability, and transparent governance. This policy provides a clear succession pathway to ensure uninterrupted academic and administrative operations.
2. Scope
This policy applies to university leadership, including the Vice-Chancellor, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Registrar, Academic Council leadership, and Institute Directors.
3. Key Leadership Positions
Gratis University is led by the Vice-Chancellor (VC), who serves as the chief executive and academic officer of the university. The Vice-Chancellor is supported by a Deputy Vice-Chancellor (DVC).
4. Trigger for Succession
Succession procedures shall be activated when the Vice-Chancellor:
- resigns
- becomes incapacitated
- is removed through an approved governance process
- is unable to perform official duties for an extended period
- completes a defined term of service
5. Interim Vice-Chancellor
Where the position of Vice-Chancellor becomes vacant or temporarily unavailable, leadership shall transfer as follows:
- The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (DVC) becomes Acting Vice-Chancellor.
- If the DVC is unavailable, the most senior Institute Director becomes Acting Vice-Chancellor.
- If no Institute Director is available, the Registrar shall assume acting responsibility until a formal acting appointment is made.
The Acting Vice-Chancellor shall notify the Governing Council within seven (7) days.
6. Appointment of a Substantive Vice-Chancellor
The substantive Vice-Chancellor shall be appointed by the Governing Council through a transparent and merit-based process. The process may include nomination, credential review, interview, and formal appointment.
7. Eligibility Criteria
Candidates for Vice-Chancellor should demonstrate:
- strong academic and leadership credentials
- capacity to lead a digital-first university ecosystem
- commitment to academic integrity and institutional excellence
- strategic vision aligned with the mission of Gratis University
8. Transition and Handover
A formal transition and handover process must be conducted. Outgoing leadership shall provide full documentation and briefing to ensure continuity of operations, academic programmes, and institutional strategy.
9. Policy Review
This policy shall be reviewed periodically by the Governing Council to ensure continued relevance and alignment with global governance best practices.
