Professor Patrick Verkooijen becomes the first Chancellor of the University of Nairobi from overseas, marking a significant moment in the institution’s history.
Verkooijen is a global leader in climate adaptation, having spearheaded initiatives like the Africa Adaptation Acceleration Program and the Global Commission on Adaptation.
According to a Gazette notice shared on Friday, the Dutch professor will serve as the institution’s Chancellor for five years, effective January 12, 2024. He will formally take up the role on February 1, 2024.
H.E President William Ruto has appointed Prof. Dr. Patrick Verkooijen as the New Chancellor for a five-year term. Prof. Dr. Verkooijen is a distinguished environmentalist with a wealth of experience and expertise. Prof Patrick V. Verkooijen succeeds Dr. Vijoo Rattansi, who… pic.twitter.com/3TzvrOhoDp
— University of Nairobi (@uonbi) January 12, 2024
The university and government officials expressed confidence in Verkooijen’s ability to propel the institution to new heights, leveraging his network and expertise in education, climate, and the green economy.
Prof. Patrick V. Verkooijen succeeds Dr. Vijoo Rattansi, who served the university for 10 years.
Renowned figures like Ban Ki-moon, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, and Kristalina Georgieva commend Verkooijen’s appointment and highlight his potential to inspire the next generation of Kenyan leaders.
Verkooijen intends to position the University of Nairobi as a “pre-eminent incubator for African talent,” contributing to sustainable development and prosperity across the continent.
Professor Patrick Verkooijen said, “It is an extraordinary honour to be appointed by the President to join the University of Nairobi as Chancellor. I am acutely aware of the burden of responsibility this seat carries with it.”
“The University is an academic powerhouse, a glittering thread in the tapestry of Kenyan society. I am inspired not only by the university’s commitment to excellence but also by the passion of its staff and community for tackling the continent’s most pressing issues and challenges.”
Honored to be appointed by H.E. President @WilliamsRuto as Chancellor of the University of Nairobi. Excited to drive this academic powerhouse to the next level as an incubator of African talent & support Kenya & the continent on its green growth journey.https://t.co/T8uJN4lfEF pic.twitter.com/tTj7ZLuNsh
— Patrick Verkooijen (@ProfPatrick_GCA) January 12, 2024
Verkooijen has held distinguished positions at the World Bank Group, the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, and the United Nations.
He holds a PhD from Wageningen University, a Master of Public Administration (MPA) from Havard, a Master in Philosophy from the University of Amsterdam, and an environmental degree from the University of Utrecht Applied Sciences.
He received a Doctor of Science, Honoris Causa, from the University of Nairobi in 2022.
