Prof Ayub Gitau tops in race for UoN VC post

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 lying at the office of Head of Public Service pending approvals. They were submitted to the ministry of education and relayed to the HoPS for further review and approval.

The delays in naming the new VC is causing concern.

Students at the institution threatened to disrupt learning over delays in appointing a substantive vice chancellor, warning the leadership vacuum is crippling operations.

The University of Nairobi Students Association said Monday the prolonged stalemate has created uncertainty in academic direction, weakened student governance, and affected welfare.

President Michael Soi urged Education CS Julius Ogamba to urgently intervene and conclude the process.

The students argued interviews for the vice chancellor 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, with disputes, court cases, and withdrawals—including Bitange Ndemo—further delaying resolution. Prof Margaret Hutchinson has been serving as acting VC since August 2024, following the suspension of Prof Kiama before his permanent departure in 2025.

Prof Bitange Ndemo was appointed substantive VC by the UoN Council in May 2025 but declined the post, citing procedural noncompliance.