Prof. Christopher Ngacho Takes Over from Prof. Peter Bukhala as MMUST’s New DVC Planning, Research and Innovation
Prof. Christopher Ngacho has taken over from Prof. Peter Bukhala, as MMUST’s new Deputy Vice Chancellor (Planning, Research and Innovation). Today, 9th March, 2026 the outgoing DVC, Prof. Bukhala, officially handed over critical documents of the Division, which included the University Master Plan, the Strategic Plan, the Monitoring and Evaluation report, as well as a host of other reports.
Prof. Ngacho received the handover reports during the University Management Board meeting held at the Vice Chancellor’s Boardroom. Prof. Ngacho is a Professor of Operations Management and has previously served as the Registrar Research, Extension, Innovation and Resource Mobilization (REIRM), as well as the Dean, School of Business and Economics at Kisii University.
Prof. Shibairo speaks at the event.
Speaking at the event, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo, lauded the efforts of Prof. Bukhala, saying that the University achieved a lot in research during his tenure as the head of the Division. At the same time, Prof. Shibairo welcomed the incoming DVC and assured him of the support of the University Management as he takes up this new role. “You are welcome to MMUST. We look forward to working with you to build this great institution,” said the VC.
“We have experienced a lot of vibrancy in terms of capacity building in research and linkages under Prof. Bukhala. His leadership involved very good follow-through, which resulted in the research budget doubling and the number of grants won going up. I have equally known Prof. Ngacho for a long time and have no doubt that he will undertake his roles as required,” stated the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration and Finance)-Prof. John Kuria Thuo.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration and Finance)-Prof. John Kuria Thuo gives his remarks during the handover ceremony.
Giving an overview of the milestones achieved, Prof. Bukhala commended all the Directorates and sections under the Division of Planning, Research and Innovation for performing well and attaining their targets. “As I pass over the button to Prof. Ngacho, I am certain that he will steer the Division to attain even more accolades,” added Prof. Bukhala.
In his inaugural remarks, Prof. Ngacho pledged to take the Division to the next level, adding that under his leadership, he will continue to enhance the research agenda already begun by his predecessor, Prof. Bukhala.
Prof. Ngacho addresses the University Management Board as well as members of the Division of Planning, Research and Innovation.
Notably, Prof. Ngacho is not a stranger to MMUST, as he has been an external examiner in the School of Business and Economics (SOBE) for a number of years. He brings on board a wealth of experience in operations management and resource mobilization. Undoubtedly, Prof. Ngacho will build on the strong foundation laid by Prof. Bukhala to drive the strategic direction of the Division.
By Dr. Lydia Anyonje and Wangari Wambugu
Photos by Wangari Wambugu
