Prof. John Okumu Confirmed as Kenyatta University's Substantive Vice Chancellor

Kenyatta University has appointed Prof. John Okumu as its substantive Vice Chancellor, effective immediately, ending his six-month stint as Acting Vice Chancellor.

The appointment was announced by the University Council on 27 July 2026 following a competitive recruitment process.

Prof. Okumu succeeds Prof. Paul Wainaina, whose second and final term ended in January 2026. 

Since assuming the acting role, Prof. Okumu has overseen the university's day-to-day operations while steering efforts to strengthen academic excellence, research, innovation and institutional stability.

A professor of Physics, Prof. Okumu has served Kenyatta University in various leadership positions over the years, including Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) before taking over as Acting Vice Chancellor. 

His appointment follows months of consultations and interviews conducted by the University Council to identify a substantive head for one of Kenya's largest public universities.

In announcing the appointment, the University Council expressed confidence in Prof. Okumu's ability to provide strategic leadership and build on the institution's achievements in teaching, research, innovation and community engagement. 

The Council said his appointment marks a new chapter for the university as it seeks to enhance its competitiveness locally and internationally.

Prof. Okumu now assumes full responsibility as the university's chief academic and administrative officer, with expectations of driving reforms, strengthening governance and advancing Kenyatta University's strategic priorities in higher education.