Amref International University picks Prof. Mutugi as its new VC

Amref International University Council’s global search for a suitable candidate has been completed with the appointment of Prof Marion Mutugi as first Vice Chancellor of AMIU for a period of four years after a vigorous competitive process spearheaded by a South African based recruitment agency.

Prof Marion Mutugi takes over from Dr Alice Lakati who has been the acting Vice Chancellor after Prof Peter Ngatia, the first interim Vice chancellor retired in September 2018. Prof Mutugi is a renowned scientist, trainer and manager who has extensive experience in management and governance in various research institutions and universities.

She is the outgoing Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Planning, Research and infrastructural Development at the University of Kabianga.

Previously, she worked at the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) where, among other positions she was as the Director, Institute of Tropical Medicine and Infectious Diseases (ITROMID) and oversaw postgraduate training in Public Health, Tropical Medicine, Epidemiology and Molecular medicine. Before that, she worked for over 25 years in public and private research institutions.

Speaking during the hand over to the Vice Chancellor, Dr. Lakati said “As the faculty we are proud to be part of the setting up of this university. The next phase requires focus as we look forward to moving the university from a letter of interim authority to charter.  In this regard, we have full confidence in Prof Mutugi as the first Vice Chancellor of Amref International University; her experience will be invaluable”.

On her part, Prof Mutugi said; “I salute and recognize the efforts of visionary people who set up this university to occupy the specific niche of training, research and extension in health sciences. Recognizing the challenge ahead, I appreciate the confidence the university council has in me.

In response to this trust, I assure the Council together with staff, students and indeed all stakeholders of Amref International University that by God’s grace I will endeavour to grow the University to be a leading research and training institution for health practitioners in Africa,”

Prof Mutugi holds a BSc in Biology from Philippine Union College, Philippines, a Master of Botany from University of Nairobi, an MBA from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology and a PhD from the University of Edinburgh, Scotland.

She is a dynamic research scientist who is widely published in genetics and bioethics and a trainer through whose hands many biomedical and health professionals in Kenya and the region have passed.

The University which is fully owned by Amref Health Africa will build on the world renowned AMREF brand and name recognition which spans a period of over 60 years of quality and innovative public and community health interventions, training and education.

 In this regard, Prof Mutugi is a good fit for Amref International University (AMIU) and will lead a team that will develop the University to be a premier institution of higher learning to inspire lasting health change in Africa.