Deputy Dean of Students

Laikipia University is seeking a visionary and experienced Deputy Dean of Students to join its senior administrative leadership. This critical role is central to fostering a supportive, transformative, and holistic student experience, aligning with the University’s commitment to nurturing students for the world. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in shaping student life, welfare, and development within a premier chartered institution renowned for its academic excellence.

Key Job Information

• Position: Deputy Dean of Students
• Institution: Laikipia University (A Public Chartered University)
• Location: Main Campus, approximately 11 km from Nyahururu Town and 50 km from Nakuru City, along the Nyahururu-Nakuru Highway, Kenya.
• Employment Type: Five (5) Year Contract
• Experience Level: Senior Administrative (Grade AD – 14)
• Vacancy Reference: LU/AD/01/12/EA/DDOS/2025
• Application Deadline: January 6th, 2026

About Laikipia University

Laikipia University (LU) stands as a premier public chartered university in Kenya, strategically located in a serene and tranquil environment along the Nyahururu-Nakuru Highway. This setting provides an ideal atmosphere conducive to teaching, learning, research, and academic excellence. The University is distinguished by its ISO 9001:2015 certification for quality management and ISO/IEC 27001:2013 certification for information security management, underscoring its commitment to high standards and operational excellence.

The University’s guiding vision is to be “A University for Valued Transformation of Society,” with a mission “To serve students and society through research, education, scholarship, training, innovation, outreach and consultancy.” Laikipia University is deeply committed to contributing to global knowledge and development while focusing on the comprehensive growth of every student. As an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, LU actively encourages applications from all suitably qualified individuals, including persons with disabilities (PWDs), those from marginalized groups, and candidates of either gender, reflecting its dedication to diversity and inclusion.

Job Description

The Deputy Dean of Students is a senior administrative position within the Office of the Dean of Students, reporting directly to the Dean. This role is integral to the development and implementation of policies, programs, and services that enhance student welfare, discipline, co-curricular activities, and overall campus life. The Deputy Dean will provide strategic support in managing the Students Affairs department, ensuring that the university environment supports academic success, personal development, and the holistic well-being of a diverse student body. This position offers a unique opportunity to directly impact student transformation and align student services with the university’s broader mission and vision.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist the Dean of Students in the overall leadership, management, and administration of the Students Affairs Department.
• Develop, implement, and evaluate comprehensive student welfare programs and support services.
• Oversee student discipline in accordance with university statutes and regulations, ensuring a fair and respectful process.
• Coordinate and promote student clubs, societies, sports, cultural activities, and other co-curricular engagements.
• Provide guidance and counseling services to students, addressing academic, personal, and social challenges.
• Manage student grievances and conflict resolution mechanisms, fostering a harmonious campus community.
• Liaise with academic departments, university administration, and external stakeholders on matters affecting student life.
• Supervise staff within the Dean of Students’ office, promoting professional development and team efficiency.
• Prepare reports, budgets, and strategic plans for the student affairs division.
• Organize orientation programs for new students and leadership training for student leaders.
• Ensure the implementation of university policies related to student conduct, health, safety, and accommodation.
• Champion inclusivity, diversity, and support for students from all backgrounds, including Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).

Required Qualifications

• A relevant Master’s degree from an accredited university.
• At least nine (9) years of extensive administrative experience, with a minimum of three (3) years at a senior management level in a university or comparable institution.
• Demonstrable experience in student affairs, welfare, discipline, or youth development services.
• Proven track record of strategic leadership, policy formulation, and program implementation.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and conflict-resolution skills.
• High ethical standards, integrity, and an impeccable professional record.
• A deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities in higher education student administration.
• Proficiency in computer applications and management information systems.
• Must meet the requirements of Chapter Six of the Constitution of Kenya. A successful candidate will be required to obtain valid clearance certificates from:
  • Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA)
  • Higher Education Loans Board (HELB)
  • Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC)
  • Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI)
  • A Registered Credit Reference Bureau (CRB)

Preferred Qualifications

• A Doctorate degree in a relevant field will be a significant added advantage.
• Experience working in a chartered public university in Kenya.
• Training in counseling psychology, conflict management, or leadership development.
• Active involvement in national or international associations related to student affairs or university administration.
• A proven record of publishing or contributing to scholarly work on student development or higher education management.

Benefits and Compensation

This is a senior position graded at AD-14, accompanied by a competitive remuneration package commensurate with the responsibilities and stature of the role within the Kenyan public university sector. The five-year contract term offers stability and a significant platform for impact. Benefits include membership in a prestigious ISO-certified institution, opportunities for professional and leadership development, and the rewarding experience of shaping the future of students in a serene, world-class academic environment. The role is based at the beautiful main campus, offering a unique work-life setting away from major urban congestion.

How to Apply

Candidates must submit a complete application package consisting of Ten (10) Hard Copies, delivered to: The Chairman, Laikipia University Council, P.O. Box 1100 – 20300, Nyahururu – KENYA. Additionally, a single Soft Copy of the entire application package must be sent as a running PDF file to the email address: [email protected].

The application must include a detailed curriculum vitae, copies of academic and professional certificates, national identification card, and any other supporting documents. It is imperative that the Vacancy Reference Number: LU/AD/01/12/EA/DDOS/2025 is clearly indicated on the application. Applications received after the deadline of January 6th, 2026, will not be accepted or processed. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the subsequent stages of the recruitment process.

Interested candidates should apply using the Apply Now button below.