The Kenyatta University Council has appointed Professor John Okumu as the institution’s substantive Vice-Chancellor, with his appointment taking effect on July 27, 2026, bringing to a close the process of filling one of the country’s most senior public university leadership positions.

Okumu succeeds Professor Paul Wainaina, becoming the seventh substantive Vice-Chancellor of Kenyatta University. The appointment was announced by the University’s Council following a competitive recruitment process conducted in accordance with the Universities Act.

In a statement announcing the appointment, University Council Chairperson Prof. Clara Momanyi said the Council had approved Okumu’s appointment after he emerged as the top candidate in a recruitment process undertaken by the Public Service Commission (PSC) and received the required concurrence from the Cabinet Secretary for Education.

“The Council is pleased to announce the appointment of Prof. John Okumu as the substantive Vice-Chancellor of Kenyatta University with effect from July 27, 2026,” the University said in its announcement.

Prof. Okumu, a Professor of Physics, has served in several senior leadership positions at Kenyatta University. Before his appointment, he was the institution’s Acting Vice-Chancellor following the retirement of Prof. Wainaina. He also previously served as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) for about a decade, overseeing academic programmes, quality assurance and institutional planning.

Speaking after receiving his appointment, Okumu pledged to provide inclusive leadership and strengthen the university’s academic standing.

“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,” he said.

His appointment concludes a recruitment process that attracted public attention after legal challenges temporarily delayed the filling of the position. The University Council proceeded with the recruitment after the court matters were resolved, culminating in Monday’s announcement.

As Vice-Chancellor, Okumu will serve as the university’s chief academic and administrative officer, with responsibility for implementing Council decisions, managing the institution’s day-to-day operations, overseeing academic programmes, research and innovation, and ensuring prudent management of university resources.

Kenyatta University is one of Kenya’s largest public universities, with tens of thousands of students enrolled across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. The institution has expanded its research portfolio and academic offerings in recent years while continuing to invest in science, technology, health sciences and teacher education.

Okumu assumes office at a time when public universities are facing increased focus on governance, financial sustainability, research output and the implementation of higher education reforms. His leadership will also be expected to guide the university’s strategic priorities while maintaining academic standards and strengthening partnerships with government, industry and international institutions.