Kenyatta University Vice-Chancellor Prof John Okumu/ HANDOUT
Kenyatta University Council has appointed Prof John Okumu as its substantive Vice-Chancellor, ushering in new leadership at one of Kenya's largest public universities.
The appointment, announced by the University's Council, takes effect on July 27, 2026, with Okumu succeeding Prof Paul Wainaina as the institution's seventh Vice-Chancellor.
University Council Chairperson Clara Momanyi formally presented Okumu with his letter of appointment during a ceremony held at the university's main campus in the presence of members of the University Council and the Management Board.
His appointment comes as Kenyatta University seeks to strengthen its position as a leading institution in higher education, research, innovation and community engagement while pursuing its long-term strategic goals.
Speaking after receiving the appointment, Okumu thanked the University Council for entrusting him with the leadership role and pledged to steer the institution through an inclusive and transformative approach.
"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.
He also pledged to champion quality education while working with staff, students and other stakeholders to advance the university's academic mission.
The appointment marks the end of Paul Wainaina's tenure, during which he led the institution through a period that included expansion of academic programmes, research initiatives and institutional reforms.
While announcing the appointment, Momanyi expressed confidence that Okumu's academic credentials and leadership experience would enable him to build on the university's achievements and guide it through its next phase of growth.
She said the new Vice-Chancellor would play a key role in strengthening Kenyatta University's long-standing reputation in teaching, research, innovation, entrepreneurship and community engagement.
According to the University Council, the appointment reflects Kenyatta University's commitment to strong institutional leadership, sound governance and continuous transformation in the higher education sector.
The council said the university remains focused on consolidating its position as a centre of academic excellence while expanding its impact through research, innovation and partnerships that address societal needs.
Kenyatta University is among Kenya's leading public universities, offering programmes across a wide range of disciplines and serving thousands of students from Kenya and beyond.
The institution has in recent years continued to position itself as a regional centre for higher learning, investing in research, innovation and international collaborations aimed at enhancing the quality of education and increasing its global competitiveness.
With Okumu now taking over the helm, the university begins a new chapter under fresh leadership as it seeks to build on its academic legacy in higher education.
