Dr Vijoo Rattansi, who served as the University of Nairobi’s first female chancellor from 2013 to 2023, has passed away. Her decade-long leadership was marked by a strong dedication to academic excellence and widening access to education for underprivileged students.
University of Nairobi Chancellor Prof Dr Patrick Verkooijen paid tribute to Dr Rattansi, describing her as a pioneering and compassionate leader. He highlighted her efforts in fostering institutional growth and expanding scholarship opportunities for financially disadvantaged students.
Beyond her chancellorship, Dr Rattansi was widely recognized for her philanthropic work through entities such as the Rattansi Educational Trust and the Daisy Eye Cancer Fund. These initiatives have supported thousands of students with scholarships and mentorship programmes, significantly impacting their educational journeys.
Born in Zanzibar in 1948, Dr Rattansi relocated to Kenya after the 1964 Zanzibar Revolution disrupted her plans to study medicine in the United States. She went on to build a distinguished career as an advocate for education and public service.
Her contributions earned her national honors, including an honorary doctorate from Moi University and the Order of the Grand Warrior (OGW) in 2006.
The University of Nairobi described her death as a profound loss to Kenya’s education sector, emphasizing that her legacy of generosity and commitment to humanity will continue to inspire future generations.
