UoN Appoints Prof Gitau as New Vice-Chancellor

The decision was made during a special council meeting held on Thursday, May 14, 2026, bringing to a close a prolonged period of acting appointments and internal disputes. This move is expected to inject fresh stability into Kenya’s oldest and largest university as it navigates ongoing challenges in higher education.

Prof Gitau assumes the role at a pivotal time when the institution faces financial pressures, staff welfare concerns, and the need to restore strong academic governance. Alongside his appointment, the council also named Josiah Omollo Aduda as the new Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Finance, Planning and Development. The leadership changes are designed to strengthen management, promote excellence, and drive institutional growth after months of uncertainty that had affected operations.

The university community had grown increasingly restless over the lack of substantive leaders, with key positions filled in acting capacity since late 2024. Academic staff unions had publicly raised alarms about how this vacuum was weakening decision-making and overall performance. The council took time to thank Margaret Jesang Hutchinson for her dedicated service as Acting Vice-Chancellor during the difficult transition phase.

This appointment marks the beginning of a new chapter for the University of Nairobi. As Prof Gitau steps into the position, expectations are high for improved financial health, better staff and student support, and renewed focus on research and innovation. For Kenya’s higher education sector, stable leadership at this flagship institution could set a positive tone for addressing broader challenges facing universities nationwide.