The Editor, Sir:

The University of the West Indies (UWI) has taken note of an article 'Shortlisting of UWI principal' which appeared in the Sunday Gleaner of August 27.

The university wishes to advise that the selection of a principal for its Mona campus is a process which is in the very preliminary stages so that the issue of a shortlist of candidates does not arise at this juncture. Indeed, the university is concerned that your newspaper should have seen it fit to divulge information which is normally considered confidential at this point in the application process.

Please note also that Professor Elsa Leo Rhynie has not been 'serving as acting principal'. She is the duly appointed principal of the UWI, Mona campus. Her appointment took effect in February 2006 (and not last year) when the former principal was appointed Governor-General of Jamaica.

I am, etc.,

CARROLL EDWARDS (Mrs.)

Public Relations Officer