The Kenyatta University Council has appointed Professor John Okumu as the University’s substantive Vice-Chancellor.
The appointment, announced by the University Council, takes effect on July 27, 2026, with Professor Okumu succeeding Professor Paul Wainaina as the institution’s seventh Vice-Chancellor.
Okumu’s appointment follows a competitive recruitment process by the Public Service Commission (PSC) where he emerged as the top candidate.
“In exercise of the provisions of Section 35(1)(a)(v) of the Universities Act and with the concurrence of the Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Education, the University Council is pleased to inform you that it has appointed Prof. John Okumu as the substantive Vice Chancellor of Kenyatta University with immediate effect,” Kenyatta University Council Chairperson Clara Momanyi said.
Speaking after receiving his appointment, Professor Okumu thanked the University Council for its confidence in him.
The new KU Vice Chancellor pledged to provide visionary, inclusive, and transformative leadership while advancing academic excellence.
“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,” said Okumu.
Prof Okumu also promised to champion quality education and work closely with staff, students, and other stakeholders to advance the university’s academic mission.
He previously served as Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic) for 10 years and held various Senior Management positions at the University.
Prof. Okumu holds a Bachelor of Education (Science), majoring in Physics, from KU and a Master of Science in Condensed Matter Physics from the same university
He also boasts a PhD in Condensed Matter Physics from the University of Leeds in the United Kingdom.
