The University of Nairobi has appointed Prof Ayub Njoroge Gitau as its 9th Vice-Chancellor, signifying the conclusion of a challenging leadership transition at Kenya’s oldest and largest public university.
The appointment was announced on Thursday, May 14, following a special sitting of the university council chaired after weeks of consultations and deliberations.
In the same changes, Prof Josiah Omollo Aduda was named Deputy Vice-Chancellor in charge of Finance, Planning and Development, with both appointments taking immediate effect.
The council also praised Prof Margaret Jesang Hutchinson for steering the institution during the transition period as acting vice-chancellor.
The University of Nairobi Council, following consultations in a special sitting held on Thursday, May 14, 2026, has announced key leadership appointments ushering in a new era for the institution. Prof. Ayub N. Gitau has been appointed the 9th Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nairobi.
Prof Josiah Omollo Aduda has been appointed Deputy Vice-Chancellor Finance, Planning & Development. The Council has also appreciated Prof Margaret Jesang Hutchinson for her dedicated service as Acting Vice-Chancellor during the transition period. Both appointments take effect from May 14, 2026,” the statement read.
Prof Gitau takes over at a difficult moment for the University of Nairobi, which has in recent years been rocked by financial strain, internal management wrangles, delayed staff payments, and growing concerns over student welfare.
Prof. Ayub N. Gitau has been appointed the 9th Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nairobi, while Prof. Josiah O. Aduda has been appointed Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Finance, Planning & Development).
The University of Nairobi Council, following a special sitting held on May 14,… pic.twitter.com/BlpM5lsCIX— University of Nairobi (@uonbi) May 14, 2026
The institution has also endured prolonged uncertainty since the controversial ouster of former vice-chancellor Stephen Kiama, a dispute that exposed deep divisions within the university’s leadership and governance structures.
The council said the new appointments signal “a new era” focused on restoring stability, strengthening leadership, and reviving academic excellence at the university.
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Prof Gitau, an accomplished engineering scholar and a long-serving academic administrator, now confronts the formidable challenge of restoring confidence at the institution.
He is expected to manage increasing financial pressures and respond to calls for reforms from staff, students, and government stakeholders.
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