The rector of the University of Guadalajara, Ricardo Villanueva Lomelí, is working on the upcoming succession at the institution with the aim of maintaining the stability and unity of the university team. This transition is a crucial moment, as it is the first succession in the institution's history without the influence of Raúl Padilla, a key figure in the university cultural field.
Villanueva aims to expedite the election process for the next rector before the inauguration of the Guadalajara International Book Fair, scheduled for the end of November, to prevent the process from turning into a free-for-all among the candidates. The intention is to ensure that the new leader maintains academic quality and strengthens the university's cultural model.
Among the favorites for the position is César ‘Chicho’ Barba Delgadillo, the current director of Upper Secondary Education (SEMS). Barba has demonstrated efficient management skills by expanding the educational infrastructure at the high school level, allowing SEMS to admit all applicants without significantly increasing the budget. Additionally, he has improved working conditions for academic and administrative staff.
Barba has implemented effective strategies to reduce school dropout rates, managing to increase student enrollment. His focus on expanding educational infrastructure in different areas has contributed to ensuring full coverage in upper secondary education, thereby fulfilling UdeG's mission to promote social mobility and academic and social development.
The election of the new rector of the University of Guadalajara is crucial, as it can impact not only the future of the institution but also its prestige and important projects like the FIL. Maintaining unity and stability is essential to ensure the university's positive direction.
In a context of changes in Jalisco, including the ratification of the elected governor and the upcoming designation of the new rector, it is fundamental to choose a leader with leadership qualities, a humanistic vision, and a commitment to the institution. The future of the University of Guadalajara is at stake, and the decision made will shape its direction in the coming years.
