Prof. John Okumu Installed as Kenyatta University's 7th Vice-Chancellor

By Hannah Karanja

Professor John Okumu was officially installed as the 7th Vice-Chancellor of Kenyatta University on Friday in a ceremony held at the institution's Graduation Square, pledging a transformative agenda anchored on unity, excellence, sustainability and greater global impact.
Prof. Okumu, a physicist who has risen through the academic ranks over nearly four decades at the university, accepted the responsibility with humility and determination. "I therefore accept this responsibility not as a stranger to the institution, but as a servant who knows its history, understands its strengths, appreciates its challenges and, above all, believes deeply in its possibilities," he stated. He committed to serving with integrity, transparency, inclusivity and unwavering dedication.

Acknowledging the rapid changes reshaping higher education, particularly the impact of artificial intelligence and technology, the new Vice-Chancellor emphasized that leadership at this moment requires courage to embrace change. "The world around us is changing rapidly and technology is redefining education and work where Artificial Intelligence is transforming knowledge production," he noted, adding that Kenyatta University must move beyond maintaining the status quo to become the most preferred university in the region.

On research and innovation, Prof. Okumu said the university would strengthen multidisciplinary research addressing national and global priorities including health, climate change, food security, artificial intelligence and sustainable development. He pledged greater support for intellectual property protection, technology transfer and commercialisation of innovations developed by students and staff.

The Vice-Chancellor also committed to accelerating digital transformation, ensuring inclusivity in the process. "Digital transformation is no longer an optional undertaking but a requirement to move beyond digitising existing processes to rethinking how the University operates," he said. He emphasized that no student or staff member should be left behind due to technological or financial barriers.

Addressing the financial challenges facing public universities, Prof. Okumu said his administration would strengthen financial discipline, diversify revenue streams and improve efficiency. He also pledged to improve staff welfare and professional development while strengthening holistic student support through mentorship, career development and counselling services. "Our vision is to produce competent, ethical, innovative and resilient graduates who are not merely seeking employment, but are capable of creating opportunities and solving societal problems," he said.

The Vice-Chancellor called for collective effort, stating that "no Vice-Chancellor can transform a university alone. Transformation requires government support, council leadership, senate stewardship, committed management, dedicated faculty and staff, empowered students, engaged alumni and trusted partners."

Prof. Okumu's installation follows a competitive recruitment process after the completion of Prof. Paul Wainaina's eight-year tenure.

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