The Dean, School of Engineering at the University of Nairobi (UoN) Prof. Ayub Njoroge Gitau topped in interviews for the position of Vice Chancellor at the institution.
The Public Service Commission (PSC) interviewed six scholars on March 19, 2026 and ranked him number one, informed sources said.
Prof. Isaiah Omolo Ndiege, former KU Vice Chancellor was number two followed by Prof. Stephen Onyango Odebero of Masinde Muliro University, and Prof. Bernard Odhiambo Aduda of Physics Department – UoN.
The other candidates who were interviewed were Prof. Mary Abukutsa-Onyango, Professor of Horticulture – UoN and Prof. Francis Jackim Mulaa, Professor of Biochemistry – UoN.
The names are at the office of Head of Public Service pending approvals. They were submitted to the Ministry of Education. Afterwards, they were relayed to the Head of Public Service for further review and approval.
Paul Famba, the PSC Chief Executive, told the National Assembly Education Committee on April 16, 2026 that three names of the recommended candidates had been forwarded to the UoN Council on April 10, 2026 for finalization.
Meanwhile, the delays in naming the new VC is causing concern.
Students at the institution threatened to disrupt learning over delays in appointing a substantive VC. They warned that the leadership vacuum is stifling operations.
The University of Nairobi Students Association said Monday, the prolonged stalemate has created uncertainty in academic direction. They emphasized that the delay weakened student governance and welfare.
President Michael Soi urged Education CS Julius Ogamba to urgently intervene and conclude the process.
The students also argued interviews for the VC and deputy positions were already conducted, questioning who is stalling the appointments.
The crisis dates back to 2024 after former VC Stephen Gitahi Kiama was removed. Disputes, court cases, and withdrawals, including Prof. Bitange Ndemo, further delayed resolution.
Ndemo was appointed substantive VC by the UoN Council in May 2025 but declined the post, citing procedural noncompliance.
Prof. Margaret Hutchinson has served as acting VC since August 2024, following the suspension of Prof. Kiama. He left the position permanently in 2025.
Featured image: Prof. Ayub Gitau on engineering.uonbi.ac.ke
