The Minister of Education congratulated Bermuda College on the appointment of its new president, David Sam.

Dr Sam is the seventh president of the college and will assume his role on August 5 after approval from the Department of Immigration.

Diallo Rabain, the education minister, revealed in Parliament that the appointment followed two searches that began at the end of 2022, the first of which did not result in an appointment.

Mr Rabain said: “Dr Sam's experience and leadership will be invaluable as we continue to build on Bermuda College's legacy and develop and execute its next strategic plan, including leading the Bermuda College through its upcoming 50th-anniversary celebrations.”

Dr Sam, from Ghana, has spent a career in the United States.

He served as president of Elgin Community College in Illinois, and was previously president at North Harris College in Texas.

Mr Rabain expressed disappointment that the college appointed a non-Bermudian to the role but added: “While there is a succession plan, it did not adequately prepare anyone to apply for the position of president.

“As a result, the board, led by its recently confirmed newest chairman, fully understands the need for a robust and sustainable succession plan to identify and develop Bermudian talent for all senior-level positions. This will be part of the new strategic plan for Bermuda College, which is currently being developed.”

Duranda Greene stepped down as president last year and Branwen Smith-King served as interim president.