President William Ruto has reappointed billionaire businessman and philanthropist Narendra Raval as the Chancellor of Egerton University. This reappointment, announced through a gazette notice published on Friday, extends Raval’s leadership role at the institution for another five years, effective from September 16, 2024. The decision aligns with the Universities Act of 2012, which grants the President the authority to appoint university chancellors.
Raval was first appointed as the Chancellor of Egerton University in 2019 by former President Uhuru Kenyatta, replacing Prof. Shem Oyoo Wandiga. His reappointment by President Ruto is seen as a testament to the positive influence and leadership he has brought to the university over the past five years. The official gazette notice stated: “In exercise of the powers conferred by section 38 (1) (a) of the Universities Act, 2012, I, William Samoei Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces, re-appoint Narendra Raval (Dr) as Chancellor of the Egerton University, for a period of five (5) years, with effect from September 16, 2024.”
A Legacy of Philanthropy and Business Success
Narendra Raval is a prominent figure in Kenya’s business and philanthropic circles. He is the founder of the Devki Group of Companies, which has become one of the largest manufacturers of steel products, roofing sheets, and cement in East and Central Africa. His journey to success, however, is one marked by humble beginnings and relentless determination.
Born in 1962 in a small town in India, Raval began his career in ministry as an assistant priest at a Swaminarayan temple. His role as a temple teacher took him to Kenya, where he continued to serve the community before transitioning into the business world. Raval started working in a small steel factory, where he developed his expertise in steelmaking. With the support of his wife and through prudent savings, he established a small steel processing and trading enterprise in Nairobi. This small venture eventually grew into the Devki Group of Companies, a multi-billion-shilling enterprise that dominates the steel industry across the region.
According to Forbes, Raval’s Devki Group generates annual revenues amounting to Ksh.64.3 billion, with his personal net worth estimated at approximately Ksh.51 billion. Raval’s rise from modest beginnings to a leading industrialist is often cited as an inspirational story for many aspiring entrepreneurs in Kenya and beyond.
Raval’s Commitment to Education and Egerton University
Beyond his business success, Raval is widely recognized for his philanthropic work. His foundation has been involved in various initiatives aimed at improving access to education, healthcare, and essential services for disadvantaged communities in Kenya. His role as Egerton University’s Chancellor aligns with his commitment to fostering educational development in the country.
As the Chancellor of Egerton University, Raval has overseen the institution’s progress during a challenging period for the higher education sector in Kenya, marked by financial constraints and the need for infrastructural development. His leadership has been pivotal in navigating these difficulties while promoting the university’s vision of academic excellence and innovation.
Raval’s reappointment comes at a crucial time as the university continues to seek ways to enhance its financial sustainability, improve its infrastructure, and expand academic programs. His business acumen and philanthropic values are expected to play a key role in driving the university’s growth and success over the next five years.
Looking Ahead
With Narendra Raval’s reappointment, Egerton University stands poised for continued progress. His deep ties to the business community and his unwavering commitment to education make him a valuable asset to the institution. As Kenya’s education sector faces evolving challenges, the leadership of individuals like Raval will be critical in ensuring that institutions like Egerton University remain competitive and capable of producing the next generation of leaders.
As he embarks on his next five-year term, Raval’s vision for Egerton University and his contributions to Kenya’s education and industrial sectors will continue to leave an indelible mark on the country’s development.
