President William Ruto has appointed James Mwangi, the Group Managing Director of Equity Group Holdings PLC, as the Chancellor of the Open University of Kenya. The announcement was made on Thursday, August 3, during an event where the institution was awarded a charter at Konza Technopolies in Machakos County.

In his new role, James Mwangi will lead the Open University of Kenya, which will be based at the Jomo Kenyatta University of Arts and Technology (JKUAT). He has been tasked with the responsibility of ensuring the university produces top-notch professionals and innovators in the country.

President Ruto expressed his satisfaction with the charter being awarded to the Open University of Kenya, emphasizing its significance in advancing university education in the country. The institution will play a crucial role in expanding university academics, especially through online and distance learning, as well as offering self-study modules, correspondence courses, and technology-enabled tutorials.

The President also highlighted that the Open University of Kenya will provide affordable and convenient academic programs for those seeking higher education in the country. He expressed his gratitude to all the individuals who contributed to making the university a reality, acknowledging the significant resources invested in its establishment.

In his acceptance speech, James Mwangi expressed his humility in being entrusted with the responsibility to serve the country as Chancellor. He promised to focus on infrastructural development to make the Open University of Kenya one of the top-performing institutions in the country. Mwangi, who also serves as the Group Chief Executive Officer of Equity Group Holdings PLC, vowed to establish the university as a provider of quality undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, diplomas, and certificates in various fields, including business, management, information technology, education, agriculture, health sciences, social sciences, and humanities.

Mwangi emphasized the university's commitment to harnessing advanced technologies to enhance enrollment, learning, and other academic services. He stated that the Open University of Kenya offers a great option for Kenyans who seek a university education but face financial constraints, as its distance and e-learning programs provide flexibility and convenience, with accredited degrees recognized by employers worldwide.

With the appointment of James Mwangi as Chancellor, the Open University of Kenya is poised to play a crucial role in expanding access to quality higher education in the country, providing a pathway for more Kenyans to pursue their academic aspirations.