UoN Chancellor Discusses Transformative Agenda with University’s Council and Senior Management.
The new Chancellor of the University of Nairobi, Professor Patrick V. Verkooijen, has spoken about his transformative agenda to reshape the future of education and innovation in Kenya. Professor Verkooijen held a consultative meeting with the institution’s Executive Board and heads of department at the Wangari Maathai Institute on Thursday and with the Council on Friday.
Professor Verkooijen outlined his strategic priorities, which he is confident will position the university as a global leader in education, entrepreneurship, and technology. They include shoring up innovation, equipping young people to lead the green transition, and harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI). He indicated that his transformative agenda will help bridge the gap between academia and industry, aligning with Kenya's development goals and paving the way for accelerated growth in emerging sectors. A full unveiling of the Chancellor’s Initiatives is expected to take place in the near future.
that could provide a roadmap to position UoN as the undisputed academic & research hub in the region.
President William Ruto appointed Professor Verkooijen Chancellor of the University of Nairobi on the 12th of January 2024.
Alongside serving as Chancellor, Professor Verkooijen is also the Chief Executive Officer of the Global Center on Adaptation. He previously served as World Bank Group Special Representative on Climate Change, and earlier as its head of climate-smart agriculture.
A Dutch national, Professor Verkooijen holds a PhD from Wageningen University, an MPA from Harvard, a master’s in philosophy from the University of Amsterdam, and an environmental engineering degree from the University of Utrecht Applied Sciences.
