Kenyatta University has named Professor John Okumu as its substantive Vice Chancellor following a competitive recruitment process conducted by the Public Service Commission (PSC).
The appointment was announced on Monday, July 27, 2026 by Kenyatta University Council Chairperson Clara Momanyi, who said the decision was made in accordance with the Universities Act.
“In exercise of the provisions of Section 35(1)(a)(v) of the Universities Act and with the concurrence of the Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Education, the University Council is pleased to inform you that it has appointed Prof. John Okumu as the substantive Vice Chancellor of Kenyatta University with immediate effect,” Momanyi stated.
Okumu emerged as the top-ranked candidate in the competitive recruitment process conducted by the Public Service Commission (PSC).
“The appointment follows a competitive recruitment process by the Public Service Commission where Prof. John Okumu was the top-ranked candidate,” the council said.
The appointment brings an end to over six months of waiting for the university’s leadership after the retirement of former Vice Chancellor Paul Wainaina, who had served in the position for eight years.
