Kenyatta University has appointed Prof. John Okumu as its substantive Vice-Chancellor, ushering in a new era of leadership at one of Kenya’s leading public universities.
The appointment, which takes effect on July 27, 2026, was announced by the Chairperson of the University Council, Prof. Clara Momanyi, during a ceremony held at the university’s main campus.
Prof. Okumu succeeds Prof. Paul Wainaina and becomes the seventh Vice-Chancellor in the institution’s history.
During the ceremony, Prof. Momanyi presented Prof. Okumu with his letter of appointment in the presence of members of the University Council and the university’s Management Board.
In his acceptance remarks, Prof. Okumu thanked the University Council for entrusting him with the position, pledging to provide visionary, inclusive and transformative leadership.
“I am deeply honoured by the confidence the University Council has placed in me. I am committed to leading with humility, integrity, and openness as we work together to strengthen Kenyatta University’s position as Kenya’s premier university and a globally competitive institution,” he said.
Prof. Momanyi expressed confidence that the new Vice-Chancellor’s extensive academic and leadership experience would help steer the university to greater achievements.
She said his appointment would reinforce Kenyatta University’s long-standing tradition of excellence in teaching, research, innovation, entrepreneurship and community engagement.
Prof. Okumu takes over at a time when the university is seeking to consolidate its position as a leading centre of academic excellence, research, innovation and societal impact.
The University Council said the appointment underscores Kenyatta University’s commitment to strong institutional leadership, good governance and continuous transformation as it pursues its strategic goals.
The university community welcomed Prof. Okumu’s appointment and expressed optimism that his leadership would guide the institution into its next phase of growth, innovation and global competitiveness.
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