William Hague has been elected as the next chancellor of the University of Oxford, defeating notable candidates including Lady Elish Angiolini and Labour peer Lord Peter Mandelson.

Hague succeeds Chris Patten, who has held the chancellor position since 2003 and is known as the last British governor of Hong Kong.

His inauguration is set for early 2025, and he will serve a term of 10 years as the university's titular head.

In his acceptance statement, Hague expressed his deep connection to Oxford and his commitment to serving the university he loves.

He described being elected chancellor as the greatest honor of his life and emphasized the importance of Oxford's role in shaping the future of the UK.

An Oxford graduate himself, Hague began his political career at the Oxford University Conservative Association and graduated in 1982 with a degree in philosophy, politics, and economics.

Hague previously led the Conservative Party, becoming its leader at age 36 after the party's loss to Labour in 1997, and resigned following a significant defeat in 2001.

As chancellor, he will preside over important university ceremonies, engage in fundraising activities, and act as an ambassador for the university.

Hague has also voiced concerns about 'cancel culture' and the need for students to engage with diverse opinions, advocating for a more open discourse.

He cautioned against his party's potential embrace of Nigel Farage, arguing that it would stray from traditional conservative values.

Oxford University has recently been ranked as the best university in the World University Rankings 2024, surpassing prestigious institutions like Stanford, MIT, and Harvard.

This election was significant as it marked the first time staff and alumni participated in an online vote to select the chancellor, a role that has existed for 800 years.