Prof. Margaret Jesang’ Hutchinson is the Acting Vice Chancellor of the University of Nairobi. She is first ever female to hold the position of a Vice Chancellor since its inception in 1970. Prof. Hutchinson, who assumed office in Acting Capacity on Monday, August 5, 2024 is also the Substantive Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research, Innovation and Enterprise) and Immediate Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance, Planning and Development) at the University of Nairobi.

Prof Hutchinson holds a PhD from the University of Guelph, Canada, and MSc and BSc from the University of Nairobi. She has over 43 years of experience in Agricultural research, extension, Innovation and Technology transfer and strategic administration. At the university, she has held several administrative positions, supporting management to deliver the university’s mandate. She is widely published,  a mentor and a role model for students and researchers across Africa.

Prof Hutchinson consults with many organizations in matters Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Security, Gender Mainstreaming in Agriculture, Leadership, governance and Transformation nationally and internationally.

She is a member of several professional bodies such as the International Society of Horticultural Science, African Crop Science Society, Horticultural Association of Kenya, Kenya Professional Association of Women in Agriculture and Environment, the Agricultural Society of Kenya and Institute of Directors.

Prof. Hutchinson pledged to serve with humility, she urged all the other University leaders to accord her support. She called for Unity and team work as she steers the University towards great transformation.