Cooperative University of Kenya, today April 30, made History after installing the youngest chancellor, in a ceremony presided over by President William Ruto and the former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Dr. Benard William Chitunga, 36, has been installed as the Second Chancellor of the Co-operative University of Kenya.
Dr Chitunga, a Professional with extensive experience and expertise in partnerships, development finance, and multilateralism, got his appointment formalized through Gazette Notice No. 387, in accordance with the Universities Act No. 42 of 2012, by President William Ruto.
He holds the distinction of being the youngest Kenyan ever appointed as a Chancellor in the history of the country.
He will serve a five-year term as the University’s Chancellor succeeding the late Hon. Joseph Nyagah, who was the inaugural Chancellor of the university.
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Prior to his appointment, Dr. Chitunga worked at the African Development Bank Group (AfDB), based at the Headquarters in Cote D’Ivoire, Abidjan as a Senior Officer for Partnerships, Donors, and Special Projects.
He also worked as part of the secretariat to the USD 5 Billion Affirmative Finance Special and Trust Funds, where he had the privilege of serving as the Task Manager during their establishment.
The newly appointed University Chancellor is a fellow of the European University Institute School of Transnational Governance in Italy.
Education Background
Dr. Chitunga’s academic credentials include two doctorate degrees in Management and Sustainable Development from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (South Africa) and Selinus University (Italy). He also holds:
An MBA from UGSM Monarch Business School in Switzerland
A Master’s in Global Business and Sustainability (Social Entrepreneurship) from Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore in Italy
A Postgraduate Certificate in Development Strategy and Governance from the University of Bradford in the United Kingdom
Dr. Wiliam’s dedication to sustainable development is reflected in his personal motto, “Son of Chegulo (village of his birth in Western Kenya) and Africa,” which underscores his deep-rooted connection to his heritage and his commitment to the broader African Continent.
As Chancellor, Dr. Chitunga is expected to leverage his vast expertise to support the university’s growth, drive innovation, and uphold its mission of excellence.
By Brian Ndigo
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