The University of Nairobi Council has appointed Prof. Ayub N. Gitau as the 9th Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nairobi, marking a new chapter focused on academic excellence, innovation, digital transformation and global competitiveness. At the same meeting held on May 14, 2026, Prof. Josiah Omollo Aduda was appointed Deputy Vice-Chancellor in charge of Finance, Planning and Development.

Prof. Gitau, an experienced engineer, researcher and academic leader with over 35 years of experience, takes over from Prof. Margaret Jesang Hutchinson, who served as Acting Vice-Chancellor for the past year. Having joined the university in 2002, Prof. Gitau has risen through various academic and leadership positions, including Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Academic Affairs. His leadership has been associated with curriculum reforms, research growth, quality assurance, digital learning expansion and strategic partnerships.

A respected Agricultural and Biosystems Engineer, Prof. Gitau has contributed significantly to engineering education, climate-smart technologies, renewable energy, irrigation systems and international research collaborations. He becomes only the second professor from the Faculty of Engineering to serve as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nairobi.

Prof. Aduda, a Professor of Finance with more than 25 years of experience in higher education and institutional leadership, has previously served as Dean of the School of Business, Chairman of the Department of Finance and Accounting and Acting Deputy Principal of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. He is expected to strengthen the university’s financial sustainability, strategic planning and resource mobilization.

The University Council expressed confidence that the new leadership team will guide the institution toward institutional renewal, stronger research and innovation, improved infrastructure, enhanced global rankings and greater contribution to Kenya’s knowledge economy.