Patrick Verkooijen appointed University of Nairobi Chancellor

By Peter Ochieng 

Dutch national Professor Patrick Verkooijen has been appointed the new University of Nairobi (UoN) chancellor.

President William Ruto confirmed the appointment, through a gazette notice dated 12th January, 2024.

“I, William Samoei Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya and Commander in Chief of the Defense Forces, appoint Patrick V. Verkooijen (Prof.) to be the Chancellor of the University of Nairobi, for five years, with effect from the 12th January 2024,” reads a gazette notice.

He replaces Professor Amukowa Anangwe who has been serving as acting Chancellor. Prof. Verkooijen will serve in his new capacity for the next five years.

Prof. Verkooijen is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the global center on adaptation, and the Ban Ki-moon chair on climate adaptation governance at the University of Groningen, in Netherlands.

He holds a bachelor of science in environmental engineering, a master of science in philosophy and a doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) in sustainable development diplomacy.

The new chancellor also holds a Master of public affairs, international negotiations, as well as a doctor of Science, Honoris Causa, of the University of Nairobi in recognition of his long career and achievements in championing climate action globally and shaping bold action in Africa.

In 2022, Prof. Verkooijen served as the distinguished chair of the Wangari Maathai Institute for peace and environmental studies by the University of Nairobi.