Dr. Vijoo Rattansi, the former Chancellor of the University of Nairobi, has died.
Her death was confirmed on Thursday, July 30, by former University of Nairobi Vice Chancellor Prof. Stephen Kiama Gitahi, who paid tribute to her as a lifelong champion of higher education and a philanthropist whose scholarship initiatives transformed the lives of countless students.
Kiama also acknowledged the personal support Rattansi offered him during a challenging period of his tenure at the University of Nairobi, noting that she stood firmly by him when he faced leadership difficulties.
Dr. Vijoo Rattansi. Photo: Courtesy.
He extended his condolences to her family and loved ones, praying that they would find strength and comfort during the mourning period.
Rattansi was widely recognized for her leadership of the Rattansi Educational Trust and for making history as the first woman to serve as Chancellor of the University of Nairobi.
After the death of her husband, Hassanally Rattansi, she became Chairperson of the Rattansi Educational Trust in 2003, leading its mission of providing bursaries to financially disadvantaged Kenyan students through proceeds generated by the Rattansi Educational Trust Building in Nairobi.
Her service extended beyond the trust, where she held leadership roles in several educational and charitable organizations, including the Daisy Eye Cancer Fund, SIDERAC, and the Sir Michael Blundell Trust.
In 2013, Rattansi was appointed Chancellor of the University of Nairobi, becoming the institution’s first female chancellor.
During her decade-long tenure, she presided over graduation ceremonies while promoting academic excellence and institutional growth before completing her term in 2023.
Her contribution to education and philanthropy earned her several accolades, including the Order of the Grand Warrior (OGW) in 2006 and an Honorary Doctor of Letters (D.Litt.) from Moi University for her dedication to expanding access to higher education and supporting vulnerable communities.
