By Jemima Oloo

In line with the university’s strategic plan to solve complex global challenges, Professor Shital Maru, Dean, School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, is an embodiment of our commitment to being a premier learning institution that prepares its students to contribute to an ever-evolving technological world.

Prof. Shital Maru holds a PhD in Pharmaceutics from the University of Nairobi with a split-site Commonwealth Scholarship at the University of Bradford, UK. She also earned an MBA from the University of Liverpool, which has informed her leadership in pharmaceutical supply chain systems, regulatory affairs, and health technology policy. She has supervised over 40 master’s students and 7 PhDs and has published extensively on various domains including drug delivery technologies, quality assurance, vaccine logistics, and antimicrobial resistance.

Her extensive professional journey that spans over two decades encompasses expertise in pharmaceutics research and development using novel technologies for drug delivery, particularly in pediatric formulation and cosmetic formulations development using quality by design and process analytical technology concepts.

Prof. Maru’s proactive approach to learning and teaching has recently seen the School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences launch the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program to meet the country’s need for trained and ethical nurses. According to World Health Organization (WHO), in Kenya, the nurse-to population ratio has improved to 40.2 nurses per 10,000 people. However, this is below the WHO’s recommended 25 per 10,000 which is significantly lower than the 60 per 10,000 needed for Universal Health Coverage.

Her diverse portfolio in pharmaceutics, medicine formulation development, hot melt extrusion technology, nanotechnology, industrial Pharmacy, health products and technology supply chain management, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) will be a guiding force for the newly launched program.

Additionally, her ethos and networks as a consultant with the Pharmacy and Poison’s Board of Kenya and as a technical advisor in the expert committee for Pharmacy and Professional Registration, are pivotal in the shaping and building of the new nursing program. She is also a strategic partner in the implementation of WHO Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) roadmap for Kenya by building capacity through training and research.

The School of pharmacy continues to grow in scope and influence under the leadership of Dean Maru whose expertise and approach is centered on research, ethical work and regulation.