Kenyatta University has appointed Prof John Okumu as its new Vice-Chancellor, effective July 27, 2026. He succeeds Prof Paul Wainaina as the institution's seventh Vice-Chancellor.

The appointment was announced by the University Council and formalised in a ceremony at the main campus, where Council Chairperson Clara Momanyi presented Okumu with his letter of appointment in the presence of university officials.

Leadership Transition and Vision

Prof Okumu expressed gratitude to the University Council for the trust placed in him and committed to leading the university with humility, integrity, and openness. He emphasized his dedication to promoting quality education and collaborating with staff, students, and stakeholders to advance Kenyatta University's academic mission.

"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," Okumu stated.

Building on Past Achievements

Prof Okumu takes over following Prof Paul Wainaina's tenure, which saw significant growth in academic programmes, research initiatives, and institutional reforms.

Chairperson Momanyi expressed confidence that Okumu's academic and leadership experience will enable him to build on the university's successes and steer it through its next phase of development. She highlighted the new Vice-Chancellor's role in enhancing Kenyatta University's reputation in teaching, research, innovation, entrepreneurship, and community engagement.

Strategic Focus

  • Strengthening Kenyatta University’s position as a leading institution in higher education
  • Enhancing research, innovation, and community partnerships
  • Promoting sound governance and continuous transformation within the higher education sector
  • Expanding the university’s impact regionally and globally

Kenyatta University remains one of Kenya’s largest public universities, offering diverse programmes to thousands of students locally and internationally. The institution continues to invest in research and international collaborations to boost the quality and competitiveness of its education.

With Prof Okumu now at the helm, the university embarks on a new chapter aimed at consolidating its academic legacy and fostering transformative growth.