Former ICT Permanent Secretary, Prof Bitange Ndemo, is on course to become the next Vice Chancellor of the University of Nairobi, after emerging as the top candidate in a selection process.
According to The Standard, Prof Ndemo scored 84 per cent in interviews conducted by the Public Service Commission (PSC), ahead of Prof Duke Orata, who scored 73 per cent, and Prof Francis Jackim Mulaa with 66.7 per cent.
In a letter dated 2 May 2025, University Council Chairperson Prof Amukowa Anangwe formally recommended Prof Ndemo’s appointment to Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba, urging him to conclude the process promptly.
“The Chairperson of the University of Nairobi Council appoints Prof Elijah Bitange Ndemo as the Vice Chancellor of the University of Nairobi with effect from 2nd May, 2025, subject to ratification by the Council,” the letter reads.
Prof Anangwe said the move was in line with the Universities Act 2012, noting that the university urgently needs stable leadership after a protracted period of uncertainty.
“It is imperative to restore stability and continuity in the leadership of the University. The appointment is both lawful and urgent, given the circumstances,” he said.
The University of Nairobi has been grappling with internal leadership turmoil for nearly two years, including the contentious removal of former VC Prof Stephen Kiama.
Tensions escalated when Education CS Ogamba attempted to dismiss Prof Anangwe, accusing him of interfering with university management—an effort thwarted by court orders reinstating him pending legal proceedings.
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Despite the revocation of four council members in April, Anangwe maintains that the Council remains legally constituted.
“The said court orders are attached for your reference,” he wrote to the Ministry.
Alongside Prof Ndemo’s nomination, the Council also announced the appointment of Prof Francis Jackim Mulaa as Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs, effective May 2.
Prof Mulaa had topped the PSC shortlist for the role with 83.5 per cent.
The appointments take effect from May 2, with all acting positions ending on May 3, signalling a leadership reset at Kenya’s premier university.
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