UoN VC Prof Kiama dismisses reports on being sent on leave

In a communiqué on Monday, Kiama noted that he is privy to a communication made on April 19 that he was going on leave.

He trashed the communication, urging all members and students to ignore the directive.

"This matter has elicited a lot of publicity and has the potential to lead to apprehension to both members of staff and students," said Kiama.

"In the meantime, I call on all of us to recommit to the task ahead of driving the university to a truly globally competitive university transforming society."

In the said memo, the Council of the University of Nairobi, following a meeting on April 19, sent Kiama on compulsory leave.

Chairperson of the council Amukova Anangwe said the council has appointed Prof Ayub Njoroge Gitau as the acting Vice Chancellor.

“The Council resolves that the Vice Chancellor prof. Stephen Kiama Gitahi proceeds on leave effective April 19, 2024. That Prof. Ayub Njoroge Gitau, Dean of Faculty of Engineering is appointed to act as the Vice Chancellor with effective from Friday, April 19, 2024,” read a memo in part.

In September 2023, the council gave Kiama the green light to proceed on six-month leave from August 1 pending the expiry of his contract, only for him to return to the university a month later.

Amid the ongoing stalemate over his leadership, the UoN council said it will continue working together with embattled Kiama.