Former University of Nairobi Chancellor Dr Vijoo Rattansi has died, marking the end of a distinguished career dedicated to advancing education, philanthropy and institutional leadership in Kenya.
Dr Rattansi made history in 2013 when she became the first woman to be appointed Chancellor of the University of Nairobi, succeeding Dr Joseph Wanjui.
She served in the role for a decade, presiding over graduation ceremonies, academic installations and key institutional events while championing excellence in higher education.
Her final official graduation ceremony was the university’s 69th graduation in 2023, where she conferred degrees, diplomas and certificates to 3,983 graduates. The class included 80 PhD recipients, 524 master’s graduates and more than 3,100 bachelor’s degree holders, underscoring the institution’s continued growth.
Beyond academia, Dr Rattansi was widely respected for her leadership of the Rattansi Educational Trust, a family-founded charitable organisation established in 1956 to support bright but financially disadvantaged students.
Under her stewardship, the trust expanded scholarship programmes that have enabled thousands of learners across Kenya to access education and pursue their academic ambitions.
She also served several charitable organisations, including the Daisy Eye Cancer Fund and the Michael Blundell Trust, reflecting her commitment to healthcare, conservation and community development.
In recognition of her outstanding contribution to education and public service, Dr Rattansi was awarded the Order of the Grand Warrior (OGW) in 2006. She also received an honorary Doctor of Letters (D.Litt.) degree from Moi University for her contribution to higher education and the promotion of learning in Kenya.
Throughout her tenure at the University of Nairobi, Dr Rattansi consistently advocated for academic excellence, innovation, research and stronger collaboration between universities, government and the private sector. She also supported efforts to strengthen governance, expand international partnerships and enhance the university’s standing as a leading centre of learning and research in Africa.
Dr Rattansi leaves behind a legacy of service, generosity and unwavering dedication to education. Her impact will continue to be felt through the thousands of students whose lives were transformed by scholarships, mentorship and the educational institutions she helped strengthen over the decades.
