Dr Vijoo Rattansi, the first female Chancellor of the University of Nairobi (UoN) and a celebrated philanthropist, has passed away.

Dr Rattansi served at the helm of Kenya’s premier higher education institution from 2013 to 2023.

Beyond her administrative leadership, she was widely revered for her selfless support of underprivileged students across the country.

Former UoN Vice-Chancellor Prof Stephen Kiama paid an emotional tribute to Dr Rattansi describing her as a champion of higher education whose generosity transformed thousands of lives.

“To many students who benefitted from her philanthropy, Dr Rattansi was a special mother: soft-spoken, kind, respectful, elegant, humble, and ever-smiling,” Prof. Kiama recalled.

He also noted her personal support during defining moments of his tenure, adding, “As I recounted in my autobiography, she stood resolutely by my side after the midnight message.”

Dr Rattansi’s impact extended far beyond the lecture halls of UoN.

Other positions served

She served as the Chairperson of both the Rattansi Educational Trust and the Daisy Eye Cancer Fund, while also sitting as a trustee for the Michael Blundell Trust.

Her professional background spanned institutional development, conflict resolution, corporate governance, and gender advocacy.

In recognition of her immense contribution to Kenyan higher education, Moi University previously conferred upon her an honorary Doctor of Letters (D.Litt.) degree.

Known for her inspiring graduation addresses, Dr Rattansi often left UoN cohorts with timeless life lessons.

During the 2021 and 2023 graduation ceremonies, she delivered some of her most iconic quotes.

“As you go into the world, arm yourself with the wisdom of the popcorn. All of them are placed in the same pot under the same conditions but pop differently. In this circle of life, don’t compare yourself to others; you might not walk into a job right away, but I assure you your time to pop is coming.”

She also frequently reminded scholars to stay grounded in humility.

“The path of duty is the way to glory. We must remain ‘woke’ and guard against the Icarus Complex… Never underestimate the value of surrounding yourself with a village of good advisers. Asking for advice is an act of humility, and verily, you are as good as the quality of advice you receive.”