Ruaha Catholic University gets new vice chancellor
Catholic University (RUCU) newly appointed vice chancellor Prof Chrispina Lekule .PHOTO/FRIDAY SIMBAYA
What you need to know:
- The appointment follows the confirmation of senior university leadership by the 85th Plenary Assembly of the Tanzania Episcopal Conference (TEC), which convened from 18 to 19 June 2025.
Iringa. Ruaha Catholic University (RUCU) has announced the appointment of Prof Chrispina Lekule as its new vice chancellor, with her tenure set to begin on September 1, 2025.
The appointment follows the confirmation of senior university leadership by the 85th Plenary Assembly of the Tanzania Episcopal Conference (TEC), which convened from 18 to 19 June 2025.
Prof Lekule is a seasoned academic and administrator with extensive experience in higher education, both locally and internationally.
Her academic background includes a Bachelor of Education with Religious Studies from Nairobi, Kenya; a Master of Science in Sociology of Social Responsibility in Education from the United States; a Master of Education in Educational Leadership and Administration, also from the US; and a PhD in Educational Leadership and Administration from Canada.
Her appointment marks a significant development for RUCU, as she is known for her commitment to transformative leadership rooted in Catholic values and academic excellence.
She is expected to bring a holistic approach to the university’s mission, focusing on both intellectual and spiritual development of students and staff.
In the same announcement, TEC confirmed the appointment of other key university officials.
Professor Alex Ochumbo was named acting deputy vice chancellor for finance and administration. Prof Ochumbo holds a PhD in Management from the United Kingdom and an MBA in Economics and Management from the US. He is credited with strengthening RUCU’s operational framework through his leadership in finance and administration.
Meanwhile, Rev Dr Pius Peter Mgeni has been appointed as the university’s Financial Controller. A scholar and ordained priest, Dr Mgeni has a multidisciplinary background in financial management, education, and philosophy. He is expected to reinforce the university’s systems of financial accountability.
All appointments were made in line with the provisions of the Ruaha Catholic University Charter of Incorporation and relevant regulations, underscoring a renewed commitment to academic leadership and institutional integrity.
