Uruguay proposes scientist Carlos Batthyány as new UTEC rector after resignation

Uruguay's Minister of Education and Culture, José Carlos Mahía, has put forward scientist Carlos Batthyány to lead the National Technological University (UTEC), following the abrupt resignation of Valeria Larnaudie. Larnaudie stepped down less than a year after taking the helm of the public university, which focuses on developing regions outside the capital.

Batthyány, currently the director of the Pasteur Institute and a researcher with extensive academic credentials, has accepted the nomination. Mahía praised Larnaudie's tenure and thanked Batthyány for his willingness to take on the rectorate, promising full support. "This is a commitment not just of the government, but of all who want the best for Uruguay," Mahía stated at a press conference.

"I accept the proposal with immense responsibility, pleasure, and honor," Batthyány said. He emphasized UTEC's foundational goal of operating outside Montevideo as crucial for ensuring young people across the country can access quality higher education. "We are not here to refound anything, nor to create something new. Founding is easy; the hardest part is sustaining and improving collectively," he added.

Batthyány, who holds a doctorate in Medicine and Biochemistry and completed postdoctoral research at the University of Pittsburgh, hopes to contribute to more Uruguayans accessing quality tertiary education. His nomination has reportedly garnered support from various opposition figures. Larnaudie's departure, two weeks prior to Batthyány's proposal, was attributed to health reasons and an inability to dedicate herself fully to the role. However, her exit occurred amid student and union protests concerning the UTEC board's alleged lack of response to workplace harassment claims, including a case that resulted in a significant fine for a former regional institute director.