Search for UoN Vice Chancellor on amid leadership woes

The Public Service Commission (PSC) has released the list of candidates shortlisted for the position of Vice Chancellor of the University of Nairobi.

Out of six applicants, five made it to the final list of academics expected to take part in the leadership transition.

The shortlisted candidates include; Prof. James Njiru, Prof. Duke Orata, Prof. Elijah Bitange Ndemo, Eng. Prof. Ayub Njoroge Gitau, and Prof. Francis Jackim Mulaa.

They are set to be interviewed on March 21, 2025, at the Commission's headquarters.

Before vetting, the candidates are required to present original documents including their National Identity Card, academic and professional certificates, and a letter of recognition for any foreign degrees from the Commission for University Education (CUE).

The successful candidate will replace Prof Stephen Kiama who was haunted from office in August last year.

Prof Margaret Hutchison later took Kiama’s position in an acting capacity.

The University Council terminated Prof. Kiama's tenure via memo dated October 14, 2024.

“The Council wishes to inform the university community that Prof Stephen Gitahi Kiama's services as an employee of the University of Nairobi were terminated effective September 27, 2024,” Anangwe said.

He did not divulge the reasons behind the termination of Kiama’s tenure of service, but stated that “reasons for his termination were promptly communicated to him.”

The next VC is set to face significant hurdles  as the institution has grappled with a debt burden running into billions, a restructuring that saw staff layoffs, and protests over tuition fee increases.

Critics have also pointed to the need for stronger governance structures and financial prudence to ensure sustainability.

“The university’s prestige has been built over decades, but recent years have tested its resilience,” said an alumnus who now works in public service. 

“We need a Vice-Chancellor who can stabilize operations, inspire students and faculty, and ensure UoN remains globally competitive.”

From funding shortfalls to governance disputes, the institution has navigated turbulent times, making the appointment of its next Vice-Chancellor a critical decision for its future stability.

A senior staff at the university said the next Vice-Chancellor must be someone who not only understands the financial constraints the institution is facing but also has the vision to restore confidence among stakeholders.

“The selection of the next Vice-Chancellor is more than just a leadership change—it’s a defining moment for an institution that has shaped Kenya’s intellectual and professional landscape for decades,” he said.

Members of the public have a chance to submit any credible information regarding the shortlisted candidates to the commission.

Such input, to be submitted via affidavits, must reach the Commission by today March 19, 2025.