Professor Dankit Nassiuma takes over as Moi University’s chancellor

Professor Dankit Nassiuma takes over as Moi University’s chancellor

Moi University, in a statement, highlighted the new chancellor’s extensive academic leadership experience and dedication to advancing the university’s mission and vision.

Professor Dankit Nassiuma has officially taken up the role of Moi University’s chancellor for a five-year term.

Nassiuma was installed on Thursday during the institution's 46th graduation ceremony at its main campus in Kesses, Uasin Gishu County.

Prof. Nassiuma’s appointment, effective from July 5, 2024, was made by President William Ruto.

Moi University, in a statement, highlighted the new chancellor’s extensive academic leadership experience and dedication to advancing the university’s mission and vision.

Prof. Nassiuma brings an impressive academic and professional background to the position. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Statistics from the University of Nairobi and advanced his education at the University of Manitoba in Canada, where he earned both a Master of Science and a PhD in Statistics.

Moi University in Kesses, Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County. (Photo: Handout)Moi University in Kesses, Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County. (Photo: Handout)

Moi University in Kesses, Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County. (Photo: Handout)

He has previously served in various academic and administrative roles, including as the Vice Chancellor of Kabarak University and Africa International University. He also worked as a director of postgraduate studies, faculty member, and senate representative at Egerton University.

Additionally, Prof. Nassiuma managed key national projects, such as the Kenya Household Integrated Budget Survey and the National Statistical System, supported by international organisations like the World Bank and DFID.

His contributions to academia include the publication of several books and numerous research articles in refereed journals, focusing on the field of statistics and its applications.

In his inaugural address, Prof. Nassiuma pledged to collaborate with stakeholders to restore Moi University’s former stature.

“Even though our problems are big, they are manageable. I look forward to working with you to build a stellar future for our institution,” he said.

“To the entire Moi University community, I acknowledge the work you have done to build and sustain this institution. This inauguration marks a new chapter, not just for me, but for our beloved university, which is in desperate need of transformation to get its former glory back.”

Prof. Nassiuma is now the fourth chancellor of Moi University since its establishment. The institution has been without a substantive chancellor since 2018.

The institution has been marred by a series of issues including financial challenges, which have led to significant disruptions, resulting in a temporary closure and staff industrial action in November 2024.

However, the University Council attributed the institution's financial woes to a combination of reduced government funding and declining student enrollment, which have worsened over the years.

The Council acknowledged that the problems could not be resolved immediately but assured stakeholders of ongoing consultations to ensure the institution’s long-term stability.

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