Ruto appoints Dutch Prof. Verkooijen as the new Chancellor of The University of Nairobi

In a move signaling his commitment to environmental action, President William Ruto has appointed climate expert Professor Patrick V. Verkooijen as the new Chancellor of the prestigious University of Nairobi. Verkooijen, the CEO of the Global Center on Adaptation, brings a wealth of experience and expertise in building climate resilience – a cause President Ruto holds dear.

Professor Verkooijen steps into the shoes of Dr. Vijoo Rattansi, who served as Chancellor for ten years. This new chapter reflects a shift in focus for the university, placing climate resilience and environmental studies at the forefront of its mission.

At just 54, Verkooijen has already carved a remarkable path in global climate adaptation efforts. He built the Global Centre on Adaptation, supporting projects in over 30 countries while forging close alliances with leaders across the globe. One of his crowning achievements was co-architecting the transformative 25 billion USD Africa Adaptation Acceleration Program alongside African Development Bank President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina.

This appointment isn't merely a fresh start; it's a homecoming for Verkooijen. He previously served as Chair of the Wangari Maathai Institute for Peace and Environmental Studies at the University of Nairobi, making him intimately familiar with its strengths and challenges.

Verkooijen's academic credentials are equally impressive. He holds a Ph.D. in environmental engineering from Wageningen University, a master's degree in Social and Political Philosophy from the University of Amsterdam, and another master's degree in Public Administration from Harvard University.

Between 2012 and 2018, he honed his teaching and leadership skills as a Professor of Practice of Sustainable Development Diplomacy at the Fletcher School of Law at Tufts University. His diverse background also includes roles as a Special Advisor to the UN peacekeeping mission in Sudan, a Research Fellow at the Harvard Kennedy School, and a senior advisor to the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs, Nature and Agriculture.

President Ruto's appointment of Professor Verkooijen as Chancellor of the University of Nairobi is a strategic move with far-reaching potential. His expertise and leadership will undoubtedly propel the university into a new era of climate action, shaping generations of environmentally conscious minds and driving innovative solutions to the most pressing challenge of our time. With Verkooijen at the helm, the University of Nairobi is poised to become a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change in the global fight against climate change.