Dr. Judith Wafula is the Acting Vice-Chancellor of Lukenya University, bringing to the role nearly three decades of distinguished service in higher education leadership, academic administration, research, and institutional development.
She holds a Ph.D. in Peace and Conflict Studies from Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, a Master of Education in Educational Administration from the University of Nairobi, and an MSc in Analytical Chemistry from Sheffield Hallam University, United Kingdom. Her interdisciplinary academic background reflects a rare blend of scientific expertise, educational leadership, governance, and social transformation.
Before her appointment as Acting Vice-Chancellor in October 2025, Dr. Wafula served in multiple senior leadership roles at Lukenya University, including Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics, Research & Student Affairs), Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research, Collaborations and Community Outreach), Registrar (Administration, Planning and Research), and Registrar (Academic Affairs). She also previously served at Daystar University in senior registrar roles overseeing admissions, examinations, and records.
Dr. Wafula is a seasoned scholar and researcher with extensive publications in gender-based violence (GBV), quality assurance, educational management, environmental sustainability, and agroforestry systems. She is co-author of the book Addressing Stigmatization in Gender-Based Violence: The Problem with GBV in Educational Institutions and has published in reputable scientific and social science journals.
Her leadership extends beyond academia into community impact. She has played key roles in climate change adaptation initiatives, agricultural productivity programs, and environmental conservation projects — including Lukenya University’s ambitious tree-planting and sustainability initiatives. In recognition of her environmental stewardship, she was named Makueni County Tree Champion in 2023.
Internationally, Dr. Wafula has participated in prestigious leadership and capacity-building programs, including the DIES LEADx International Leadership Programme for Female Vice Presidents in Universities (DAAD & German Rectors’ Conference, 2025). She is also a recipient of multiple awards from Sheffield Hallam University for leadership, academic excellence, and societal contribution.
As Acting Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Wafula is committed to strengthening academic excellence, research innovation, governance systems, community engagement, and student-centered leadership. Her vision is anchored in transformative education, sustainability, and positioning Lukenya University as a dynamic institution contributing meaningfully to national and global development.
Venue: International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), Nairobi
Theme: Building Resilient Food Systems for a Sustainable Future
🌱 Join us at the "DRYLAND AGRICULTURE & FOOD SYSTEMS IN THE FACE OF CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE" on June 27th-28th, 2024, hosted at ILRI headquarters conference facility. Engage with leading experts, researchers, and practitioners to explore innovative solutions for sustainable agriculture amidst climate challenges. 🌾 Register now to secure your spot! Visit our website to sign up: [Registration Link] #LukenyaUniversity #DrylandAgriConference #ClimateChange #SustainableAgriculture
Join Lukenya University’s 2nd Marathon – we’re running for a greener future! Planting over 300,000 trees, we welcome runners and cyclists to support our green initiative. Let’s take shared responsibility for our planet, making a stand against climate change. Lukenya University’s Marathon is a step towards a more sustainable world. Join us – every step counts for a brighter tomorrow!