‘He not only moulded and empowered young minds but also helped create a genre of civic-minded Caribbean citizens’
By Dr Jerome Teelucksingh
IN the 20th and 21st centuries, Professor Brinsley Samaroo made inestimable contributions to the academic and political landscapes of T&T.
Some are aware of his invaluable political contributions during the 1970s and 1980s as he was a vital part of the United Labour Front (ULF) and the National Alliance for Reconstruction (NAR).
He passed away on Sunday at the age of 84. He died at Medical Associates in St Joseph after suffering a brain aneurysm last week. He leaves to mourn his wife Joan and daughter Dr Kavita Samaroo.
‘Samaroo, the academic legend, was a master of his craft’
In a statement on social media, “The family of Prof Brinsley Samaroo wishes to advise of his passing today at 12.45 pm. He died peacefully following a brief illness.
“We would like to thank everyone for their prayers and support during this period and wish to request some private time to grieve. An announcement will be made regarding his memorial service.”
His influence was locally, regionally and internationally. Samaroo, the academic legend, was a master of his craft. He was respected as a serious scholar who unearthed historical treasures in libraries and archives across the globe. Later, he would distil this knowledge into food for thought for eager audiences.
He had a lively delivery style in his many presentations. It is a talent to take a topic, considered boring, and transform it into an article or speech that is exciting and interesting!
‘Some might believe they could fill the academic void that Professor Samroo has left. They need to realise that disciples never become greater than their masters’
At any forum, he commanded respect for his depth of knowledge and experience. He was well-known for his excellent memory, humour and anecdotes. Some disagreed with his views but they all were in awe of a man whose impeccable research enriched their lives.
Professor lectured to hundreds of students at both Naparima College and The University of the West Indies. Furthermore, he fed hundreds more of these hungry minds at conferences and seminars abroad. Many of his former students have become successful in various fields. He not only moulded and empowered young minds but also helped create a genre of civic-minded Caribbean citizens.
Professor was one of my mentors in the field of History. His bold and fearless statements on the past and present made me realise that he walked a narrow path that others feared to tread. Some might believe they could fill the academic void that Professor Samroo has left. They need to realise that disciples never become greater than their masters.
Undoubtedly, his stellar academic career including his political accomplishments earned him accolades at home and abroad.
Upon retrospection, many of us would consider it fortunate to have met a humble servant of knowledge who embodied Gandhian values.
Professor Samaroo made me realise that legends never fade away, after death, they become immortal.
Dr Jerome Teelucksingh is a lecturer in History at the University of the West Indies and a columnist with AZP News.
