| dc.description.abstract | The University of Nairobi community is saddened by the death of a distinguished scholar, researcher and former administrator Prof. David Peter Simon Wasawo.
He died at the age of 91. Prof. Wasawo’s illustrious academic career began in his early schooling days of primary and secondary school all the way to University where he became the first East African to be awarded a degree in Science and an Oxford Masters degree in Zoology. He also became the first African teaching member of staff in the Faculty of Science, Makerere University.
In Makerere, he rose through the ranks between 1952 and 1965 to become a full Professor and Head of Zoology Department. He taught many scholars who pioneered the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Nairobi. Prof. Wasawo was the first Vice-Principal of Makerere University between 1962 and 1965. In 1965, he transferred to the University College of Nairobi where he became the first Vice-Principal and held the position until 1969 when the University was inaugurated and the new Vice-Chancellor appointed. Professor Wasawo also held the positions of Chairman, Department of Zoology and Dean, Faculty of Science at the University of Nairobi.
After successful stints with other national and international bodies, Prof. Wasawo returned to the University of Nairobi, as the Chairman of the University Council between 1998 and 2005. During this period, he successfully oversaw the implementation of Module II Programmes and laid ground for competitive hiring of top managers in the University, a practice that has been emulated by other state bodies.
Prof. Wasawo researched widely and published on various biological species and will therefore be remembered for his contribution on the lungfish, the largest fish in the region, before introduction of Nile Perch in Lake Victoria.
In recognition of his contribution to research and teaching and his outstanding role in science and technology, the University of Nairobi awarded Prof. Wasawo the Degree of Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) in 1999.
As we celebrate the life of an academic hero, the University of Nairobi, Chancellor, Council, Senate, Staff and Students join the family in mourning a departed founding academic icon in the country.
May the Almighty rest his soul in Eternal peace. | en_US |
