By Valentine Omondi
Kenyatta University has appointed Prof. John Okumu as its substantive Vice-Chancellor, ending months of uncertainty over the leadership of one of Kenya’s largest public universities following a competitive recruitment process.
In a notice dated July 27, 2026, the Chairperson of the University Council, Prof. Clara S. Momanyi, announced that the appointment took effect immediately after receiving the concurrence of the Cabinet Secretary for Education, in accordance with Section 35(1)(a)(v) of the Universities Act.
“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,” the notice reads.
The Council said Prof. Okumu emerged as the top-ranked candidate in interviews conducted by the Public Service Commission, paving the way for his appointment to steer the institution into a new chapter.
Prof. Okumu is a seasoned academic and Professor of Physics who has served Kenyatta University for more than three decades. He joined the institution in 1988 and has risen through the academic ranks while holding several senior leadership positions. Before his appointment, he served as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) for a decade before taking over as Acting Vice-Chancellor in January 2026 following the end of Prof. Paul Wainaina’s tenure.
The University Council said his extensive experience in higher education leadership, strategic planning, research and institutional development makes him well suited to lead the university.
“Given his in-depth experience and strategic insights in higher education management, strategic planning, and stakeholder engagement, the University Council is confident that he will provide visionary and transformational leadership that will guide the University into its next phase of growth and excellence,” the statement added.
The appointment follows a recruitment process that attracted public attention after it was challenged in court, temporarily delaying the installation of a substantive Vice-Chancellor. The legal dispute centred on the recruitment process, but the University Council has now concluded the appointment.
As he assumes office, Prof. Okumu inherits the responsibility of leading one of Kenya’s premier institutions of higher learning, which serves tens of thousands of students and plays a significant role in teaching, research and innovation.
The University Council has called on staff, students and stakeholders to support the new Vice-Chancellor as he begins his tenure.
“We encourage all members of the University community and stakeholders to accord him the necessary cooperation and support as he undertakes his responsibilities to deliver on the University’s mandate,” the Council said.
Prof. Okumu’s appointment marks the beginning of a new era for Kenyatta University, with expectations that his experience in academic leadership and university management will strengthen institutional growth, research excellence and the delivery of quality higher education.
