This decision was announced in a gazette notice published on Friday, September 16, 2024. The reappointment comes under the Universities Act of 2012, which allows the President to appoint university chancellors.
Narendra Raval, also known as Dr. Raval, has been a prominent figure in the business world, especially in the steel and cement industries.
His leadership at Egerton University is expected to continue the university's growth and development in the coming years. Raval first took on the role of Chancellor in 2019, after being appointed by former President Uhuru Kenyatta, replacing Prof. Shem Oyoo Wandiga.
Raval’s background is quite inspiring. He was born in 1962 in a small town in India and started his career in ministry as an assistant priest at a Swaminarayan temple.
Later, he moved to Kenya, where he served as a temple teacher. His journey in the steel industry began when he took a job at a small steel factory, where he learned the skills needed for steelmaking.
With determination and some savings, Raval and his wife started a small steel processing and trading business in Nairobi. What began as a modest venture has grown into the Devki Group of Companies, which is now the largest manufacturer of steel products in East and Central Africa. The company produces a wide range of products, including roofing sheets and cement.
Under Raval’s leadership, Devki Group has achieved remarkable success. According to Forbes, the company generates impressive revenue of about Ksh.64.3 billion.
Raval himself has an estimated net worth of Ksh.51 billion, making him one of the wealthiest individuals in Kenya.
Aside from his business achievements, Raval is also known for his philanthropic efforts. He has contributed significantly to various charitable causes and initiatives, demonstrating a commitment to giving back to the community. His role as Chancellor of Egerton University reflects his dedication to education and youth development.
As Chancellor, Raval is expected to bring his business acumen and experience to the university, helping to enhance its academic and infrastructural capabilities. His reappointment is seen as a positive step towards fostering partnerships that can benefit both the university and its students.
The announcement of Raval’s reappointment has been met with optimism within the academic community.
Stakeholders believe that his leadership will help address some of the challenges faced by the university and support its mission to provide quality education.
0 Comments