University of Nairobi Chancellor Patrick Verkooijen. Dr Vijoo Rattansi (mugshot)/FILE
University of Nairobi Chancellor Patrick Verkooijen has paid tribute to his predecessor, Dr Vijoo Rattansi, describing her as a trailblazing leader whose impact on higher education and philanthropy will endure for generations.
In his condolence message on Thursday following news of her death, Verkooijen said Dr Rattansi's decade-long tenure as chancellor transformed the institution and strengthened its pursuit of academic excellence and global engagement.
"It is with a profound sense of sadness and a heavy heart that I have learned of the passing of my esteemed predecessor," Verkooijen said as he extended condolences to the Rattansi family on behalf of the University of Nairobi community.
Dr Rattansi made history as the university's first female Chancellor, serving from 2013 to 2023.
Verkooijen said her leadership was marked by dedication, wisdom and grace, laying a firm foundation on which the university continues to build.
He said her influence extended well beyond the institution through her extensive philanthropic work, particularly her efforts to make higher education accessible to financially disadvantaged students.
Verkooijen noted that, through the Rattansi Educational Trust and other charitable initiatives, Dr Rattansi helped thousands of young people pursue higher education through scholarships and mentorship, changing the course of their lives.
"The thousands of individuals whose lives she touched, whose dreams she financed, and whose futures she secured bear living testimony to a life beautifully lived in service to humanity," he said.
He described her as a distinguished education advocate, an exceptional leader and a compassionate humanitarian whose legacy would continue to inspire future generations.
Former University of Nairobi Vice Chancellor Stephen Kiama also mourned Dr Rattansi, describing her as a champion of higher education whose generosity transformed the lives of countless students.
Kiama said her commitment to academic scholarships opened opportunities for many young people to pursue higher education and realise their dreams.
He also recalled her personal support during one of the most challenging moments of his tenure as vice chancellor.
Beyond the University of Nairobi, Dr Rattansi chaired the Rattansi Educational Trust and the Daisy Eye Cancer Fund, and served as a trustee of the Michael Blundell Trust, among other charitable organisations.
She was widely respected for her work in institutional development, conflict resolution, fundraising, stakeholder engagement, corporate governance, strategic planning, and gender and development.
Her philanthropy and commitment to education earned her admiration across Kenya's academic and charitable sectors.
