This archive report was first published on 5 June 2020.
On June 5, 2020, the University of Nairobi installed Professor Stephen Kiama as its eighth Vice-Chancellor in a virtual ceremony.
The appointment comes after a leadership tussle that saw his appointment revoked by Education Cabinet Secretary George Magoha at one point.
Professor Kiama was appointed on January 6 by the university council, chaired by Professor Julia Ojiambo.
Speaking after he was handed the instruments of power, Professor Kiama said, “I endeavour to work and do my best in this position, and continue making this university the centre of excellence”.
Professor Ojiambo appealed to the deputy vice-chancellors to work together and support the new head of the institution.
“Prof Kiama, you are the best among equals, now the hard work begins,” said Professor Ojiambo, urging university staff to work together.
Education Cabinet Secretary George Magoha expressed confidence in Professor Kiama's ability to deliver, noting that he had worked with him during his tenure as a VC.
Chancellor Vinjoo Rattansi thanked the Public Service Commission for the transparent interviews and asked DVCs to be bold enough to make tough decisions in engineering curriculum reforms at the university.
