Prof Ndung’u has been reappointed as the Chancellor of Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), a role he has held since January 2019. His reappointment is seen as a testament to his exemplary leadership and the significant progress the university has made under his tenure. Prof Ndung’u also serves as the Regional Director for the Geneva-based Foundation for Innovative New Diagnostics (FIND), a position he has held since 2022. Prior to this, he was the head of the Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD) at FIND.
JKUAT Vice Chancellor, Prof Victoria Wambui Ngumi, warmly welcomed Prof Ndung’u’s reappointment, praising his focus and results-driven approach. She affirmed the continued support of the University Council, management, and the entire university community in helping Prof Ndung’u guide JKUAT towards achieving its full potential in various areas including training, research, innovation, entrepreneurship, and community service.
In his acceptance message, Prof Ndung’u expressed his gratitude and enthusiasm for the opportunity to continue serving as Chancellor. “I am delighted to be reappointed as the Chancellor of our great university. This recognition reflects the governance and performance of JKUAT as a university of excellence. I thank His Excellency the President, Dr. William Samoei Arap Ruto, for giving me another chance to continue serving our country in this capacity,” he stated.
Prof Ndung’u holds a Bachelor’s degree in Veterinary Medicine and Surgery (BVM) from the University of Nairobi and a PhD in the Immunopathology of human African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness) from a university in Scotland. With over 100 publications to his credit, he began his professional career in 1985 as an assistant research officer at the Kenya Trypanosomiasis Research Institute (KETRI). He was promoted to deputy director in charge of research in 1992 and became the director of KETRI in 1995.
In 2019, Prof Ndung’u received the African Union’s prestigious Excellence Award for his achievements and contributions to research and control of Trypanosomiasis and Tsetse fly (T&T), recognizing his efforts in developing new diagnostic tools for neglected tropical diseases.
Prof Ndung’u’s reappointment marks a continued era of growth and excellence for JKUAT. The university community looks forward to the advancements and innovations that will emerge under his guidance in the coming years.
