Rector

“By creating intellectual space and resources, this University (UCA) will help turn the mountains that divide the nations and territories of Central Asia, into links that unite its peoples and economies in a shared endeavour to improve their future well-being.”

His Highness the Aga Khan, Chancellor, University of Central Asia, Astana, Kazakhstan, 31 August 2000

The University of Central Asia (UCA) is a major centre for knowledge and learning, founded in 2000, under an International Treaty signed by the Presidents of the Republic of Tajikistan, Kyrgyz Republic, Republic of Kazakhstan and His Highness the Aga Khan and registered with the United Nations. The mission of the University is to promote the social and economic development of Central Asia by delivering an internationally recognised standard of higher education and research, enabling the peoples of the region to preserve and promote their rich cultural heritage, while connecting isolated rural communities with the global community and building human capital needed for modern economies and stable governance. UCA is the first regional university in Central Asia with campuses in the three Founding States (Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan) and programmes in Afghanistan.

UCA is comprised of three Schools, the School of Arts and Sciences, which offers innovative undergraduate education in English medium; the School of Professional and Continuing Education, which provides technical and vocational education/training to meet the immediate needs to improve livelihoods; and the Graduate School of Development which focuses on research relating social and economic issues, climate change, natural resources and environmental management, and other present-day issues effecting mountain societies. Additional information on UCA can be found on the University’s website: https://ucentralasia.org/about/about-uca.

Having now established a sound academic footing, UCA is seeking its next Rector. The successful candidate will have a record of senior leadership in a relevant context, the intellectual credibility to lead an ambitious and committed faculty, and a deep commitment to the transformational potential of education and research. UCA brings with it the broader commitment and partnership of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) with its rich experience of a continuum of development activities aimed at improving the quality of life of the peoples it serves. The ideal candidate will bring an understanding of the region and an appreciation for the potential the AKDN partnership provides.

To apply, please submit an up-to-date CV and a maximum two page Covering Letter indicating why you think you are suitable for this post and please visit https://candidates.perrettlaver.com/vacancies quoting reference: 5509.

Informal enquiries can be made in the first instance to our executive search consultants, Perrett Laver, via Thomas.Eade@perrettlaver.com.

The closing date for applications is 24th January 2022.

All applicants are requested to submit a completed version of an Equal Opportunities Monitoring form with their application. The information provided will be handled in the strictest confidence and will only be used for statistical monitoring purposes.