Dr. Vijoo Rattansi, who served as the first female Chancellor of the University of Nairobi (UoN) from 2013 to 2023, has passed away. Her tenure was marked by a strong commitment to academic excellence and inclusivity.
Legacy of Leadership and Service
In a statement, current UoN Chancellor Prof. Dr. Patrick Verkooijen paid tribute to Dr. Rattansi’s transformative leadership. He described her as a trailblazer whose dedication, wisdom, and grace significantly shaped the university’s growth.
"Her leadership laid a solid foundation for academic excellence and enhanced global engagement, which continues to benefit UoN today," Prof. Verkooijen said.
Champion for Education Access
Dr. Rattansi was passionate about making higher education accessible to talented students facing financial challenges. She supported numerous scholarships and mentorship programmes, impacting thousands of lives.
"The countless individuals whose futures she helped secure stand as a testament to her life devoted to service," Prof. Verkooijen added.
Philanthropic Contributions
Beyond academia, Dr. Rattansi chaired several charitable organizations, including the UoN Foundation, the Rattansi Educational Trust, and the Daisy Eye Cancer Fund, further demonstrating her commitment to social causes.
