By Ongaga Ongaga
Kenyatta University has appointed Prof. John Okumu as the Acting Vice-Chancellor, following the conclusion of Prof. Paul K. Wainaina’s eight-year tenure on 25th January 2026.
The announcement was made via an internal memo dated 2nd February 2026, signed by Prof. Clara S. Momanyi, Chairperson of the University Council.
Prof. Okumu, a seasoned academic and administrator, assumes the role at a pivotal moment for one of Kenya’s leading public universities.
With over three decades of service at Kenyatta University, he has risen through the ranks from Tutorial Fellow to Professor of Physics, and previously served as Deputy Vice-Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs for ten years.
“The Council is confident that he will provide effective leadership and ensure continuity in the management of the University,” the memo stated, urging students to accord him full cooperation and support.
The transition comes as the Public Service Commission (PSC) begins the process of recruiting a substantive Vice-Chancellor.
Prof. Okumu’s interim leadership is expected to maintain institutional stability while the university navigates this change.
His appointment was announced during a valedictory ceremony held in honour of Prof. Wainaina, who oversaw major infrastructural and academic developments during his tenure.
Prof. Okumu’s leadership begins amid growing expectations for enhanced governance, academic innovation, and student engagement.