Governance failures leave over 400,000 students in struggling universities
Out of Kenya's 43 universities, Ogamba identified 21 as non-performing.
More than 400,000 students, constituting 60% of the total enrollment in public universities, are currently studying in institutions plagued by governance challenges, revealed Education Cabinet Secretary Migos Ogamba during a session with the National Assembly Public Investments Committee.
Out of Kenya's 43 universities, Ogamba identified 21 as non-performing, attributing their struggles to political patronage and inadequate vetting of vice chancellors and council members.
During the committee meeting chaired by Bumula MP Wanami Wamboka, Ogamba emphasized that while 20 universities were functioning effectively, the remaining 21 faced severe governance issues.
He responded to a suggestion from Imenti Central MP Moses Kirima to shut down these struggling institutions, expressing concern over the fate of students currently enrolled.
"The 21 non-performing universities house more than 60% of our student population," Ogamba informed the committee.
"Closing them down raises serious questions about where these students would continue their education."
Addressing concerns about council appointments, Ogamba outlined ongoing efforts to ensure all appointees undergo rigorous security background checks.
"We are scrutinizing the qualifications of council members across universities," he stated.
"This process is crucial to addressing the governance gaps highlighted in the Auditor-General's reports."
Auditor-General Nancy Gathungu previously flagged issues such as non-remittance of statutory deductions, stalled projects, and insufficient ethnic and gender diversity in university staffing.
CS Ogamba acknowledged these challenges, underscoring the Ministry's commitment to appointing qualified personnel who adhere to constitutional principles of fairness and merit.
"Institutional oversight by councils and boards is critical for policy formulation and financial accountability," Ogamba emphasized.
"We are working diligently to rectify these governance shortcomings to ensure effective management of our higher learning institutions."
The Education Cabinet Secretary concluded by reaffirming the Ministry's dedication to resolving these issues promptly, ensuring that universities operate with transparency and efficiency.