Mourning Dr. Vijoo Rattansi, Former Chancellor and Chairperson of the UoN Foundation
The University of Nairobi community is mourning the passing of Dr. Vijoo Rattansi, OGW, the University's 5th Chancellor, whose distinguished tenure from 2013 to 2023 left an enduring mark on the institution and on thousands of students whose lives she transformed through education and philanthropy.
Leading the University community in paying tribute, Chancellor Prof. Patrick V. Verkooijen and Vice-Chancellor Eng. Prof. Ayub N. Gitau described Dr. Rattansi as an exceptional leader, a passionate advocate for education, and a compassionate philanthropist whose legacy will continue to inspire generations.
In his tribute, Chancellor Prof. Verkooijen remembered Dr. Rattansi as a trailblazer who made history as the University's first female Chancellor. He noted that her decade of leadership was characterised by wisdom, dedication, and grace, laying a strong foundation for academic excellence and strengthening the University's global outlook. He further acknowledged her far-reaching humanitarian work through the Rattansi Educational Trust, the Daisy Eye Cancer Fund, and other charitable initiatives, which opened doors to higher education for thousands of financially disadvantaged students through scholarships and mentorship.
Vice-Chancellor Eng. Prof. Ayub N. Gitau reflected on Dr. Rattansi's remarkable service to the University, describing her as a leader whose humility, generosity, quiet strength, and unwavering commitment to education earned the admiration of students, staff, alumni, and partners alike. As the first and only woman to serve as Chancellor, she led with compassion and distinction, becoming a cherished member of the University family. During her tenure, the University conferred upon her an Honorary Doctor of Letters degree in recognition of her outstanding contribution to education and philanthropy.
Dr. Rattansi presided over some of the University's defining milestones, including numerous graduation ceremonies that celebrated tens of thousands of graduates who have gone on to shape Kenya, Africa, and the world. Her final graduation ceremony marked the University's first physical graduation following the COVID-19 pandemic and the inaugural graduation of pioneer students at the Koitalel Arap Samoei Campus. She also provided steadfast leadership during the University's Golden Jubilee celebrations and supported the institution as it successfully transitioned to virtual learning during the pandemic, ensuring academic excellence continued despite unprecedented global challenges.
Beyond ceremonial leadership, Dr. Rattansi championed initiatives that directly benefited students and the University community. She hosted the inaugural Chancellor's Career Fair in 2018 and, through Educate Yourself Limited, donated books to the University Library in 2023. Through the Rattansi Educational Trust, she enabled many financially disadvantaged University of Nairobi students to pursue higher education, leaving an indelible legacy of opportunity, hope, and service.
Extending condolences to the Rattansi family on behalf of the University Council, Senate, Management, staff, students, alumni, and friends of the University, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Gitau affirmed that Dr. Rattansi's legacy "will forever remain woven into the story of the University of Nairobi." Chancellor Prof. Verkooijen likewise observed that the thousands of lives she touched stand as a lasting testament to a life devoted to service and humanity, adding that her generosity will continue to illuminate the University's path into the future.
As the University of Nairobi honours the life and legacy of Dr. Vijoo Rattansi, the institution celebrates a remarkable woman whose leadership, philanthropy, and unwavering belief in the transformative power of education will continue to inspire generations to come.
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