The University of Nairobi has appointed Prof Ayub Gitau as its 9th Vice-Chancellor, alongside Prof Josiah Aduda as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Finance, Planning & Development), following a special Council sitting held on May 14, 2026.
The announcement marks a key leadership transition at University of Nairobi, signaling renewed focus on governance, academic excellence, and financial sustainability.
The appointments come at a time when the institution is seeking to strengthen its competitiveness amid rising regional pressure, digital transformation in higher education, and growing demand for research output and innovation-driven training.
The Council indicated that the new leadership is expected to enhance excellence, innovation, and global competitiveness.
Council Confirms New Leadership Appointment
The University of Nairobi Council, chaired by Chacha Nyaogotti, confirmed the appointments and emphasized their strategic importance.
“These appointments mark a new chapter for the University of Nairobi as we strengthen leadership for excellence, innovation, and global competitiveness,” he said.
The Council is expected to work closely with the new Vice-Chancellor, Ayub Gitau, and Deputy Vice-Chancellor Josiah Aduda, to implement reforms in finance, planning, and institutional development.
The leadership change is widely viewed as a critical step in aligning the university’s governance structures with its long-term strategic plan and addressing emerging operational challenges.
Acknowledgment of Acting Vice-Chancellor
The Council also expressed appreciation for outgoing Acting Vice-Chancellor Margaret Hutchinson for her service during the transition period, noting her role in maintaining institutional continuity and administrative stability.
Her tenure is credited with ensuring smooth operational management during a period of leadership uncertainty and ongoing reforms within the institution.
The new appointments are expected to shape the university’s financial and academic direction, particularly in areas such as resource mobilization, infrastructure development, and research expansion.
The inclusion of a dedicated finance and planning leadership role is seen as an effort to enhance accountability and improve long-term fiscal planning within the institution.
