DOHA
A Goan-origin educationist Dr Darrell Carmel De Souza has been conferred with the Order of the British Empire (OBE) by His Majesty King Charles III for his outstanding achievements and dedicated service in the field of education.
Dr Darrell's name is among the New Year Honours list 2024 announced for Further Education leaders from the United Kingdom.
“A huge thanks to those who, collectively, thought highly enough of me to put together the nomination for the honour of OBE for services to Further Education. I'm just very honoured to receive this prestigious award, mindful of the sacrifices made by my parents and the support provided by my family. The award represents the success over many years of the brilliant students and colleagues that I have been involved with in my 38 years plus career in Further Education,” Dr Darrell told The Goan.
ACADEMIC JOURNEY
Dr Darrell, who retired in November 2022 after an illustrious 20-year career at Uxbridge College and HRUC (Harrow, Richmond & Uxbridge Colleges), has played a pivotal role in shaping the educational landscape.
His journey began in August 2019 when he assumed the position of Principal at Uxbridge College and CEO for the HRUC College group, having previously served as Vice Principal - Curriculum and Standards since August 2007.
Dr Darrell’s family moved from Kenya to the UK and is thankful to the role played by his late parents in shaping his career.
“I have enjoyed much success - none of it would be possible without the sacrifices made by my parents, who emigrated from Goa and came to the UK from Kenya, and who together with my late brother, I know would be very proud, as is my sister and family. It’s been my privilege to be involved in this wonderfully diverse and talented Further Education sector – long may it continue to serve its communities so well and be increasingly and widely recognised for doing so,” said Dr Darrell, whose father Lazarus De Souza hailed from Carmona and mother Alba Da Rocha Machado from Verna.
Born in Nairobi-Kenya, Dr Darrell grew up and received his education at St Clement Danes grammar school in West London. He earned a BSc Hons from Kings College - Chelsea, London, and later completed a PhD in Applied Genetics at Birmingham University.
His commitment to education led him to obtain a PGCE from Garnett College, Roehampton University, and he amassed considerable experience in the Further Education (FE) sector as a science lecturer, curriculum and support service manager, and senior manager.
PERFORMANCE
A key aspect of Dr Darrell's legacy is his emphasis on driving high performance.
Under Dr Darrell's leadership, Uxbridge College achieved an impressive 'Outstanding' rating during the 2008 Ofsted Inspection. His dedication to maintaining high standards extended beyond the College, as he chaired the Association of London (AOC) Quality Forum until July 2019. Through this role and previous engagements in other London forums, Dr Darrell actively contributed to and led various FE projects and initiatives in the capital.
HRUC CEO Keith Smith said: “The OBE awarded to Darrell is a testament to his significant impact on education and the positive influence he has had on countless students and colleagues throughout his distinguished career. I am delighted that his legacy at this College, and achievements across the sector have been acknowledged in this way.”
GOAN CONNECT
Dr Darrell, who visited Goa two years back on official duties, said he is proud of his Goan heritage and has been visiting the state on a consistent basis over the years.
“‘Carmel’ is the consistent name passed down generations in my family and linked to Our Lady of Mount Carmel, and associated with Da Rocha Machado family and its Catholic Chapel at Solar Machado, Nagoa-Verna,” he said about his second name, Carmel.
APPRECIATION
Meanwhile congratulatory messages have been pouring in for Dr Darrell.
“Huge congratulations to Darrell De Souza on his OBE. Uxbridge College has truly benefited from Darrell's leadership and guidance and this is testament to the dedication and passion he has for further education,” Uxbridge College wrote on LinkedIn.
Educationist Suba Dickerson said Dr Darrell is a legend and a trailblazer who is continuing his educational journey after retiring from HRUC.
“So delighted that Darrell DeSouza has been awarded an OBE. His unwavering long service to FE (further Education), with innovation, compassion, inspiration and commitment to every learner is legendary. He is an exceptional leader who is still a trailblazer for the FE sector. After retiring from HRUC, he is still trailblazing at Capel Manor College. Brilliant news - Well done! So pleased to have worked with you Dr Darrell De Souza OBE, you are a legend.”
