By KPC Reporter
Prof. Shem Oyoo Wandiga, the former Chancellor of Egerton University, has died.
His death brings to an end the life of a distinguished environmental chemist and academic leader who steered the institution between 2013 and 2019.
Also Read
In a tribute, the university described Prof. Wandiga as a respected scholar whose leadership helped strengthen Egerton University’s academic standing, research profile, and institutional growth.
During his six-year tenure, Prof. Wandiga presided over graduation ceremonies and conferred degrees on thousands of students while also serving as a key representative of the university within Kenya’s higher education sector and beyond.
His leadership period coincided with notable progress in research and innovation, including Egerton University’s recognition as an African Centre of Excellence in Climate Smart Agriculture.
The recognition elevated the institution’s profile in climate change adaptation and agricultural research, areas closely aligned with the university’s core mission.
Prof. Wandiga frequently expressed pride in the achievement, viewing it as evidence of the university’s growing role in advancing national and continental development goals.
He also oversaw major improvements in academic infrastructure.
In 2016, the J.D. Rockefeller Research Library at the Utafiti Building on the university’s main campus was expanded to include The Foster Library, adding more than 3,500 specialised books and scientific documents to the institution’s research collection.
The expansion enhanced postgraduate training and improved access to reference materials for scholars undertaking advanced studies.
Prof. Wandiga also played an active role in discussions on the future of higher education in Kenya.
During a Special Senate meeting in 2016, he raised concerns about the rapid expansion of universities, increasing student enrolment, and funding pressures facing public institutions.
He called for stronger governance systems, greater financial accountability, and sustainable resource management to safeguard the quality of university education.
Egerton University described him as a Chancellor who combined ceremonial duties with active participation in the institution’s academic and strategic development.
The university conveyed its condolences to Prof. Wandiga’s family, friends, colleagues, and the wider academic community, saying his contributions would remain part of the institution’s history and continued pursuit of excellence.
