Professor John Okumu is the new Vice Chancellor of Kenyatta University. His appointment takes effect immediately.
The University Council announced the appointment after a competitive recruitment process conducted by the Public Service Commission (PSC). According to Council Chairperson Prof. Clara Momanyi, Prof. Okumu emerged as the top-ranked candidate.
Experienced Academic Leader
Before taking up the new role, Prof. Okumu served as Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs for ten years. In addition, he held several senior management positions at the university.
Prof. Momanyi described him as an experienced academic and administrator. She said he has a strong background in university leadership, research and institutional development.
Furthermore, she said the University Council believes his experience in higher education management, strategic planning and stakeholder engagement will strengthen the institution. She added that he is well placed to lead the university into its next phase of growth and academic excellence.
Takes Over From Prof. Paul Wainaina
Meanwhile, Prof. Okumu succeeds Prof. Paul Wainaina, who retired in January 2026.
Prof. Okumu is also an alumnus of Kenyatta University. He earned a Bachelor of Education (Science) degree in 1986, majoring in Physics.
He later completed a Master of Science in Condensed Matter Physics at the same university in 1988. Afterwards, he obtained a PhD in Condensed Matter Physics from the University of Leeds in the United Kingdom in 1996.
Long Career at Kenyatta University
Prof. Okumu joined Kenyatta University as a Tutorial Fellow in 1988. Over the years, he rose through the academic ranks. Eventually, he became an Associate Professor in 2004.
Besides teaching, he has made significant contributions to research. He has published 26 papers in internationally refereed journals. He has also published 18 conference papers and authored two books.
In addition, Prof. Okumu is a member of the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation Network. The organisation supports young African scientists through training and scientific exchange programmes.
