Bio
Prof. Esther Gicheru is the Deputy Vice Chancellor Finance Planning and Administration at The Co- operative University of Kenya. She is an Associate Professor in Cooperative Management and Organization Development. She is a holder of a Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture from the University of Nairobi, a Master’s Degree in Co-operative Management and Organization Development from Leicester University, United Kingdom, and a Doctorate Degree from Cebu Doctors’ University, The Philippines. She also a Diploma in Counseling Psychology of Tangaza University College. Prof. Gicheru’s career started in 1976 as a Co-operative Officer in Kenya’s Ministry of Co-operative Development and Marketing serving in various capacities before moving to The Co-operative College of Kenya as its Principal in 1988 under the Ministry of Co-operative Development and Marketing, rose to Director of The Co-operative College of Kenya when it became a Semi-Autonomous Government Agency. She was, in August 2012 appointed as acting Principal of The Co-operative University College of Kenya. She has coordinated successful implementation of many training programs both nationally and internationally. Her research work spans co-operative management, co-operative policy, gender issues in co-operatives and incorporation of co-operative training in higher education curricula. Prof. Gicheru in recognition of her contribution to the co-operative movement worldwide received the most respected international award, The Rochadale Pioneers’ Award (RPA) in 2007. Her remarkable contribution to the Co-operative Movement in Kenya has earned her two presidential awards; Head of State Commendations (HSC) IN 2008 and the Order of Grand Warrior of Kenya (OGW) in 2016.