On Monday, 18th May 2026, the University of Nairobi ushered in a new chapter in its academic leadership following the handing over of the Academic Affairs Division by the Vice Chancellor, Eng. Prof. Ayub N. Gitau to Prof. John Demesi Mande, who took over as Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic Affairs). In his handover message, Eng. Prof. Gitau welcomed Prof. Mande to the role and wished him wisdom, strength, and success as he assumes responsibility for one of the University’s most critical divisions.

The University of Nairobi Council, after the requisite consultations has appointed Prof. Ayub Njoroge Gitau as the 9th Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nairobi, ushering in a new era of academic leadership, institutional renewal, innovation and global engagement at Kenya’s premier university. Prof. Ayub Njoroge Gitau has been acting as the Deputy Vice-Chancellor(Academic Affairs).

The Student Recognition Ceremony, 2026 was held in Chandaria Auditorium on 8th May, 2026 as from 9.00am. The Chief Guest was the Ag. Vice Chancellor Prof. M. Jesang Hutchinson. The event was also attended by Prof. Ayub Gitau Ag. Deputy Vice-Chancellor (AA), Prof. John D. Mande Ag. Deputy Vice-Chancellor (HRA), Prof. Jackson Maalu  Ag. Deputy Vice-Chancellor (FPD) and Prof. Leonidah Kerubo Ag.