Who is Prof Ayub Gitau? Key things to know about new University of Nairobi Vice-Chancellor
By Mabonga Makhanu, July 18, 2026As Professor Ayub Gitau takes over as the vice-chancellor of the University of Nairobi, little is known about the academician by the wider public despite his long service at the institution.
Prof. Ayub Njoroge Gitau, a professor of agricultural and biosystems engineering, was appointed the 9th vice-chancellor of the University of Nairobi on 14 May 2026 by the University Council.
He officially took over from Prof. Margaret J. Hutchinson, who had served in an acting capacity. A soft-spoken yet accomplished engineer with over two decades at UoN, Gitau brings deep institutional knowledge after rising through the ranks from lecturer in 2002 to senior leadership positions, including dean of the Faculty of Engineering and acting deputy vice-chancellor for academic affairs.
Academic portfolio
Born in 1966, Prof. Gitau holds a BSc in agricultural engineering from Egerton University and both MSc and PhD degrees in agricultural engineering from the University of Nairobi.
His expertise covers agricultural mechanisation, soil mechanics, renewable energy, and climate-smart technologies.
He has held key roles such as chairman of the Department of Environmental and Biosystems Engineering and acting principal of the College of Architecture and Engineering. He is a registered professional engineer and member of several local and international engineering bodies.
As he assumes leadership, Prof. Gitau’s vision centres on academic excellence, research impact, innovation, sustainability, and positioning UoN as a globally competitive institution.
His appointment marks a new chapter for Kenya’s oldest university following a period of leadership transitions, with expectations high for strengthened financial sustainability, digital transformation, and strategic partnerships.
Inyangala lauds Gitau
During his installation ceremony, Principal Secretary for Education, Beatrice Inyangala, while congratulating the vice chancellor, noted that:
“You are assuming the office of the vice chancellor at a defining moment for higher education in our country. Universities are navigating significant reforms, changing learner needs, rapid technological advancement and growing expectations from society. Leadership in times like that requires clarity of purpose, courage and, above all, wisdom. Consequently, my advice to you is simple: listen carefully, lead decisively and always protect the institution.”