Message from Vice-President and Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Teaching and Learning)

Dear colleagues and students

I am very pleased to share the wonderful news that Dr. Michael Rivera of the Faculty of Social Sciences has been honoured with the prestigious 2026 UGC Teaching Award in the category of Early Career Faculty Members.

Although still in the early stages of his academic career, Dr. Rivera has already distinguished himself with his innovative approach to anthropology education. His teaching thoughtfully combines active learning, experiential enquiry, and reflective practice, creating both “brave spaces” and “safe spaces” that foster students’ resilience, critical thinking, and communication skills. Through his distinctive expertise and deep commitment to student-centred learning, Dr. Rivera exemplifies the qualities of a passionate, inspiring, and transformative educator.

Please join me in congratulating Dr. Rivera on this well-deserved recognition.

Professor Jay Siegel
Vice-President and Pro-Vice-Chancellor
(Teaching and Learning)