18 April 2006. NEW YORK— Ambassador Lauro L. Baja Jr., Philippine Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York, reported to the Department of Foreign Affairs that UN Secretary General Kofi Annan has invited the Philippines to nominate a candidate for rector to the UN University (UNU) in Tokyo.

"The Philippines should seriously consider the invitation of the Secretary General and nominate a candidate for the position of rector of the UN University," Ambassador Baja said.

In his report to Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto G. Romulo, Ambassador Baja explained that  the successful nominee shall replace Prof. Hans van Glinkel who will retire as his term ends on 31 August 2007.

According to Ambassador Baja, the term of office of the UNU rector is five years with eligibility for appointment for another five years. The emoluments and allowances for the rector are equivalent to that of an Undersecretary General.

"As one of the leading educational centers in Asia, the Philippines surely would have candidates who would fit the Secretary General's requirements," Ambassador Baja said.

In his letter of invitation, Secretary General Annan said candidates should have experience in the management of an academic or a research institution combined with experience in the international or scientific community. Candidates should also have a successful track record of fundraising.

"The candidate should be well known to the international community and committed to the principles and ideals of the UN and should have a wide grasp of the problems of the modern world," Secretary General Annan said, adding that women candidates are welcome.

Ambassador Baja said the deadline for submission of applications is on 31 July 2006.

The UN University was established by the General Assembly in 1973 to contribute, through research and capacity building, to efforts in resolving the pressing global problems that are the concern of the United Nations, its Peoples and Member States. END