Kenya

15 September 2017

Degree Clean-Up Laudable

A decision by Makerere University to recall law degrees it conferred in the past decade on the grounds that some of them could have been forged is a bold and unprecedented crackdown on a wave of academic fraud that has been sweeping through institutions of higher learning in the region. Read more

Education Key to China-Kenya Ties

This year, 150 excellent Kenyan young men and women have won Chinese scholarship programmes. These scholarships go a long way in deepening the strong bonds of friendship and long-standing trade ties. Read more

Foreign Firms to Plug Universities’ Infrastructure Gap

Foreign financial institutions and private equity funds are lining up millions of dollars to invest in Kenya’s higher education, potentially helping to narrow the damaging infrastructure gap facing the sector. Read more

How Varsity Positions Are Killing Research

Too often, risk of research oblivion is real and promotions might delay, or be derailed. Read more

Local Universities Begin Biometric Registration of Students

It will now be easier to identify students in universities after a number of the institutions rolled out a biometric registration of the learners this month. Read more

Only 72,000 Admitted to Public and Private Universities to Benefit from the Sh3.2 Billion

Only 72,000 students who sat last year’s KCSE will be considered for loans this year. Read more

Private Universities Reject State-Sponsored Learners

Private universities have turned away many government-sponsored students, citing poor funding. Read more

Purge on Varsities, Degrees Is Welcome

Kenya’s higher education expanded exponentially since the mid 1990s, driven by higher demand by high school qualifiers and the working class seeking to upgrade their professional skills. Read more

University of Nairobi Trails Africa Peers in Research, Lecturer Numbers

The University of Nairobi has moved one position up to be ranked the 11th best university in Africa even as it trails peers in research, female student enrolment and lecturer-student ratio. Read more

Why Universities Choose to Sit Back as Others Build State

Universities must claim their rightful place in production of good citizenship. Read more

 

31 August 2017

After Elections, What Can Higher Education Expect?

With Kenyan elections done and dusted, the focus is now shifting to how President Uhuru Kenyatta and other elected officials will implement their ambitious election promises in relation to higher education and science, technology and innovation. Read more

Court Orders Graduation of University Students Caught up in Leadership Row

A court has ordered the graduation ceremony of 500 students of Great Lakes University of Kisumu (GLUK) to go on as planned after a leadership dispute left their fate hanging in the balance. Read more

Crisis Looms at Varsities amid Threat of Another Strike

A crisis looms in higher education once again after university lecturers issued a one-week notice to the government to implement their salary increase or face another round of industrial action from next month. Read more

Higher Student Loan Demands Push HELB into Panic Mode

The Higher Education Loans Board (Helb) is facing an uphill task to meet its financial obligations as institutions of higher learning begin their new academic year. Read more

Mount Kenya University Hails 36 Former Students Who Won Elective Seats in General Election

Mount Kenya University has congratulated its former students who won various elective seats in the General Election. Read more

Private Universities Struggle to Make Ends Meet

Even after the Kenyan government last year permitted the enrolment of state-sponsored students in private universities, many of these institutions continue to grapple with financial deficits as a result of low student numbers, poorly planned and rapid expansion, as well as weak financial and management accounting systems. Read more

Salary for Public University Workers to Delay

Some public universities workers may not get their August salaries amid claims that Government has yet to release capitation money. Read more

UASU Losing Its Voice with Every Chant of ‘Solidarity Forever

The University’s Academic Staff Union (UASU) has given notice of a strike over refusal by the government to honour a past Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). Read more

 

15 August 2017

Kenyans Expect Free Education Whether Raila or Uhuru Wins

Kenyans are expecting free education irrespective of which party wins. Read more

Kenyan Varsities Must Adopt Modern System to Replace Annoying Practices

In spite of putting up a few ultramodern high-rise buildings on their main campuses, our universities have not fundamentally changed much since the 1960s. Read more

Kenyatta University Selling Property on Arusha Campus

Kenyatta University is selling off some of its property on Arusha campus, signaling the start of plans to shut down the institutions’ premises. Read more

Moi University’s Dream of 6000-Seater Amphitheater Turning into Reality

The journey for Moi University to realize its ambitious dream to construct a 6000-seater Amphitheatre, the biggest in the region, has taken off, following the award of the tender to an architectural contractor to design the plan. Read more

Ouko to Probe KU for Company Opened in Kigali

Parliament’s Public Investments Committee (PIC) has directed the Auditor-General to ascertain ownership of a company opened by Kenyatta University to run its Kigali, Rwanda Campus. Read more

Parliament Moves against Student Fee Defaulters

Kenya’s university students who default on fees face a bleak future after parliament recommended that a public university list those students and past students in arrears with credit reference bureaus. Read more

School of Medicine Celebrates 50th Anniversary in Style

The University Of Nairobi’s School of Medicine, celebrated 50 years since inception in style. Read more

The University QMS Certification Process

The University of Nairobi has received the ISO9001:2015 certification from KEBS, the Certification Body, marking a milestone for the Quality Management System (QMS). Read more

We Endorse a Candidate Who Will ‘Heal’ Our Universities

In both symbolic and material terms, the presidency is largely powerful and whoever wins will most likely influence the texture and poise of university education for the next five years.Read more

 

15 July 2017

Dons Term New SRC Evaluation Report as Unfair

Vice-chancellors of public universities have demanded an urgent meeting with Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) over a job evaluation report that has attracted protest from academic staff. Read more

Equity Bank’s Scholarship Programme Hits Sh10 Billion

The current total value of the scholarships to date stands at nearly Kshs 10 billion (USD 100 million). This caters for tuition, air tickets and related expenses while at the respective universities for the entire period of studies. Read more

Lecturers’ Strike Set to End As Sh5.2m Is Released

Striking university workers are set to resume duty after the Education ministry on Tuesday released the second and final tranche of Sh5.2 billion for their Sh10 billion collective bargaining agreement. Read more

Matiang’i Strikes Again, Orders 2 Universities to Shut Campuses

Education Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has ordered two leading public universities in Kenya to close their campuses in Rwanda and Tanzania. Read more

Mishra Sponsors 19 Students to Pursue Teaching Courses

Kesses Jubilee parliamentary candidate Dr Swarup Mishra Kiprop has sponsored 19 students to pursue certificate and diploma teaching courses at Tambach Teachers college. Read more

Science Scheme Expected To Spur Innovation

Innovative youths now have a reason to smile, following the launch of the Young Scientists Kenya (YSK) programme by the government in collaboration with the Irish embassy. Read more

SRC Report Reveals ‘Anomalies’ Among Varsities’ Staff

An evaluation report by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) has revealed the pay and grading differences among employees of universities. Read more

Success of Kibabii University Credited to Jubilee Regime

President Kenyatta listed Kibabii University in Bungoma , which has already received a Charter, as another successful initiative of his Government. Read more

Tanzania Bars Two Kenyan Varsities over Standards

Two Kenyan universities have been barred from admitting students to their Tanzania campuses this year over failure to comply with the country’s standards and regulations. Read more

Thousands of Ghost Workers Earning at Universities

Thousands of ghost workers are earning salaries in public universities, an audit report has revealed. Read more

Universities to be Closed For Elections

All public universities will be closed ahead of the August 8 general polls. Read more

Uon Students to Start Using Biometric Identification Cards

Students at the University of Nairobi (UoN) will soon start using biometric identification cards, for security, purposes. Read more

 

30 June 2017

Ball State University Professors Visit Moi University

Moi University Ag. Vice Chancellor Prof. Laban Ayiro  signing a MoU with Ball State University Dean, Teachers college Prof. John E. Jacobson on Wednesday June 28, 2017 in his office Main Campus. Read more

Innovation Center Holds Successful Workshop on Design Thinking

The School of Science and Technology in conjunction up with the Mekatilili Program and Foondi Workshops hosted a Design and Internet of Things Workshop at the Innovation and Incubation Center. Read more

Moi University, AGBA Sign MoU to Host International Conference

Moi University has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the US-based Academy for Global Business Advancement (AGBA) to host its forthcoming 14th Annual World Congress. Read more

New Guidelines Set High Publishing Bar for Academics

Kenya’s Commission for University Education has issued stringent new guidelines for the appointment and promotion of academic staff in a system that gives heavy emphasis to publication in reputable, peer-reviewed journals and discourages publication in so-called predatory journals. While the move is intended to raise academic standards, it has also raised concerns about the hurdles to publication facing many Kenyan academics. Read more

Rotary Club Support 5 UoN Students with Scholarships

The Rotary Club of Nairobi has awarded five University of Nairobi (UoN) students from the School of Business with scholarships to the tune of Kshs, 175,000. Read more

Pangea Board Members Elect Prof. Njeru as President

Prof. Enos Njeru, the Principal of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHSS), has been elected as President of Partnership for Africa’s Next Generation of Academics (PANGeA). Read more

The Baby Friendly Community Initiative – A Pilot Study In Koibatek, Baringo County, Kenya

Programs promoting optimal infant and young child nutrition could prevent a fifth of under five deaths in countries with high mortality. Effective strategies to improve infant and young child feeding practices are needed. Read more

UoN Is the Most Social Learning Institution

The University of Nairobi (UoN) has been crowned the ‘most social learning institution’ category in the OLX Social Media Awards 2017. Read more

Usiu-Africa Prepares for Re-Affirmation of Accreditation

USIU-Africa is currently undertaking an institutional self-study exercise in preparation for the re-affirmation visit by WASC Senior Colleges and University Commission (WSCUC) in 2018. Read more

USIU-Africa Students and Faculty Participate in the Summer Edition of Oxford Consortium Workshop Series

The workshop was organized to better understand humanitarian law and ethical systems of international refugee policy and deepen the connections of policy to people via service and fieldwork in a refugee camp. During the workshop, Dr. Mwambari delivered a lecture on “Lived Experiences of Internally Displaced Persons, Refugees and Migrants after Conflicts”. Read more

 

15 June 2017

18 Students Join Ranks of Peer Counselors

The Peer Educators and Counselors Club (PECC) held a graduation ceremony for 18 students. The annual ceremony concludes two and a half semesters of training – a journey that this time round began in during the Fall 2016 semester. Read more

34th Graduation Ceremony to be Held on Friday 30th June 2017

Moi University wishes to inform candidates who qualified for the conferment of various degrees and award of diplomas during the 2016/2017 academic year that the 34th Graduation Ceremony will take place on Friday 30th June 2017 at the Main Campus, Graduation Pavilion. Read more

A Successful Launch of UoN School of Law Alumni Chapter

The President of the Judiciary, Chief Justice David Maraga, urged lawyers in the country to embrace integrity and good work ethics. Read more

Administration Department Organises for Staff Team Building

The members of staff from the Administration Department of the University of Nairobi were given a treat at Lake Elementaita in Gilgil for team building bonding activities. Read more

Agency Issues New Charges for Technical, Vocational Institutes

Fees in technical and vocational institutes is expected to rise following the gazettement of new charges by the regulator. Read more

Carnegie African Diaspora Fellow Returns to Finish Information Systems Security Curriculum

Associate Professor of Computer Science Dr. Charlie Obimbo from the University of Guelph, in the Canadian city of Ontario, has returned to USIU-Africa for a second time as a Carnegie Africa Diaspora Fellowship Program Fellow. Read more

Don-Turned-Presidential Hopeful Vows to Redeem HE

A Kenyan professor aspiring to become president in the country’s upcoming general election says, if elected, he will give priority to higher education and redeem the image of the Kenyan system. Read more

First Criminology and Criminal Justice Conference to be Held this Thursday

The School of Humanities and Social Sciences will this week host the region’s first Criminology and Criminal Justice Conference from June 15-16 in the auditorium. Read more

HE Budget Emphasises Shift to STEM Education and Training

The 2017-18 budget allocation to higher education and training sectors points to a government committed to a stronger focus on science, technology, engineering and mathematics in order to boost industrialisation. Read more

Increase Helb and Seal Loopholes to Ensure Poor Get It

Most people believe that university students live in opulence. They think students receive huge sums of money from the Higher Education Loans Board (Helb) that is enough for their fees, accommodation, maintenance and leisure. Read more

Intel Developer Program to Host Artificial Intelligence Workshop at USIU-Africa

The School of Science and Technology in conjunction with the Intel Student Developer Program and the IT Club of USIU-Africa are set to host an Artificial Intelligence workshop on Saturday, June 10 at the Innovation and Incubation Center. Read more

Kenya Commits Sh800 Million to Setting up Scholarship Fund

Kenya is among four African countries that have committed some Sh800 million to setting up a scholarship fund for doctoral training in science, engineering and technology. Read more

Leadership Crisis in Varsities Worrying

Education Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has decried leadership crisis in Kenyan universities manifested in financial fraud, ethnic mobilisation and falling academic standards. Read more

Moi University Enactus Team Emerges the National Champion 2017

Moi University Enactus team has emerged the champion after beating 33 other universities in the recently held Enactus Kenya National Business and Entrepreneurship Exposition competitions. Read more

Need for Change in Higher Education

Institutions of higher learning are being challenged to solidify their positions as home to some of the world’s top scholars, researchers and experts in diverse fields. Read more

Police Bust Academic Document Forgery Den, Criminal Hit Squad

Police have in two separate incidents busted gangs of criminals that have aided students forge academic documents and waylay students at night with crude weapons. Read more

President Lays Foundation for Construction of Koitalel Samoei University

President Uhuru Kenyatta laid the foundation stone for the construction of Koitalel Samoei University College. The university college located in Nandi Hills is a constituent college of the University of Nairobi (UoN). Read more

Scheme to Make Transfer within EAC Varsities Possible

East African students will be able to transfer to any university in the region following the approval of a framework to guide the process. Read more

Selected Schools to Act as Centres to Promote Sciences

Two schools per county are set to be transformed into model centres for promotion of science related subjects across the country. Read more

Students Celebrate World Environmental Day

United Nations Environmental Program (UNEP) and National Youth Green Growth Secretariat (NY2GS) of Kenya partnered with the USIU-Africa Environmental Society (ENSO) club to host university students from Nairobi to usher in the World Environmental Day 2017 themed “Connecting People to Nature”. Read more

Survey Highlights ‘Skewed’ Arts, Science Programmes

A survey of science courses in Kenyan universities has revealed a “high tendency” towards the development of programmes that attract more student numbers, resulting in a “skewed” development overlooking science, technology, engineering and mathematics courses – all with potential implications for the implementation of the country’s industrialisation blueprint, Vision 2030. Read more

Take Pride in Moi University, Prof Ayiro Urges Students, Staff

Moi University Acting (Ag.) Vice Chancellor (VC) Prof. Laban Ayiro has urged students and staff to take pride in the institution as their own, saying it is an internationally acclaimed academic giant with unique programmes and many opportunities. Read more

Uhuru Honours Nandi Hero Koitalel Arap Samoei

President Uhuru Kenyatta on Monday launched the construction of a university to honour one of Kenya’s popular freedom fighters, Koitalel arap Samoei in Nandi County. Read more

University Education in Kenya Must Open Up – It’s Far Too Rigid

According to Gina Yashere, a brilliant British comedian of Nigerian descent, in African families a child has four career choices: doctor, lawyer, engineer or disgrace to the family. Read more

 

15 May 2017

Liberal Arts Education – Africa’s Antidote Against Exploitation

Our system takes an 18-year-old and thrusts him or her into law school, finance, journalism, and medicine before they develop oral and written communication and critical skills. Read more

Public Varsities Set to Lose Billions over Admissions

Universities across the country are set to miss out on billions of shillings they generate from privately sponsored students after all the available places were taken up by the 88,626. Read more

What Do We Want With Our University Education?

It has become fashionable today in Kenya to speak about university education in a very unflattering language. Read more

Why Universities Should Promote Sports

In October last year, something very exciting took place at Kenyatta University. The institution was recognised as the number one sports university in the region and proudly took its place among the leading institutions that have promoted and supported students in sports besides other academic pursuits. Read more

 

30 April 2017

14 Students Receive Scholarship from Mitsubishi Corporation

The selected students, drawn from the Department of Geography and Environmental Studies and the School of Biological Sciences (BSc degree in Environmental Conservation and Natural Resources Management), come from needy backgrounds and have recorded excellent performance in their respective courses. Read more

Kenyatta Universityin Collaboration with The Association of African Universities (AAU), Holds Training Workshop on University-Industry Linkages

KU hosts the 2017 workshop on facilitating university-industry linkages for African Universities organised by Association of African Universities. Read more

Central Mps Tell Off Sossion in Academic Row with Matiang’i

Mount Kenya region parliamentarians have told the Kenya National Union of Teachers secretary-general Wilson Sossion to keep off academic scrutiny matters. Read more

Erosion of Quality in Kenyan Varsities: Is it the Cause of Poor Global Ranking?

Recently in Naivasha, during an induction forum for newly appointed university council members for 22 public universities, Matiang’i named irregularities that have bedevilled university education. Read more

Government Admits Record Number of Students as Parallel Programme Killed

The government will fund university and college education for 116718 students who sat last year for Kenya certificate of secondary education examination. Read more

Students Receive Insight on Life and Career Choices

Discover your purpose,’ ‘build your skills,’ ‘make the right choices,’ ‘seize opportunities,’ ‘have a plan’ – these are some of the many tips students received at the Skills Hunt Summit which was held at the University of Nairobi. Read more

Three African Centres of Excellence Launched

Kenya has launched three African Centres of Excellence in universities with support from the World Bank. Read more

Universities Face Seachange over Diplomas and Doctorates

Kenyan universities will be allowed to offer both degrees and diplomas following a policy reversal that has thrown institutions a major lifeline in a tight regulatory environment. And in another dramatic policy reversal, the government has announced that the requirement that only academics with doctorates are eligible to be lecturers was counterproductive and hurting the sector. Read more

Universities Forge New Partnership with Industry

Kenyan universities, in conjunction with leading industry stakeholders, have launched a digital sustainability platform in an effort to curb the growing skills gap, according to top-ranking officials. Read more

UoN Team to Develop National Master Plan for Science and Technology Parks

The University of Nairobi (UoN) through its subsidiary University of Nairobi Enterprises Services (UNES) has been awarded a contract to develop the National Master Plan for Science and Technology Parks in Kenya and designs for technology parks for Konza and Dedan Kimathi University of Technology and Science. Read more

UoN Scholar Writes Book on Cancer Treatment

Prof. Nicholas Abinya, a scholar and researcher at the Department of Clinical Medicine and Therapeutics, College of Health Sciences (CHS), has authored a book on drugs treatment for cancer. Read more

Why University Senates Failed to Stop the Decay in Institutions of Higher Learning As a graduate student, the mention of ‘university senate’ elicited impressions of sagacious academic leadership. It evoked images of spirited deliberations, democratic ideals and a collegiate approach to university governance. Once, when one of my university teachers became a ‘senator’, I discerned that senators, or those members of academic staff who attended senate, occupied a privileged status in the university. Read more

 

15 March 2017

Ongoing Lecturer Strike Keeps Students in Limbo

Teaching and learning is yet to resume at public universities across the country as the unions representing the teaching staff had not, by late last week, reached an agreement with the government over salaries, keeping the studies of thousands of students in 33 institutions on hold. Read more

CS Matiang’i Urges Students to Avail Loans to Study

The Ministry of Education has disbursed Sh1.3 billion for training students in technical institutions. Read more

Education and Politics Go Hand-In-Hand

Education is the process of facilitating learning by acquiring knowledge, skills and values. Public education in Kenya is based on the 8–4–4 system. It entails eight years of primary education, four in secondary school and four more in college or university. Read more

Fake Certificates: New Gadget to Catch Cheats, Fast

A Strathmore University graduate has developed an IT system that can be used to verify academic certificates to curb rampant cheating by job seekers. Read more

Half a Loaf Is Better Than None: Lecturers Finally Take Sh10bn

University Academic Staff Union secretary general Constantine Wasonga said the association reached the decision to save the higher education sector from collapse and to end students’ suffering. Read more

Higher Education Capture by the Elite Hurting Quality of Learning and Grade

The government’s own instigated audit on universities has exposed a foul-smelling can of worms that nearly choked Education. Read more

Lecturers to Decide Accepting Sh4.8 Billion State Offer to End Strike

Lectures have said they will only call off their strike if the state confirms that the Sh4.8 billion offered to them is on top of the initial Sh10 billion. Read more

Lessons from End of Lecturers’ Strike

All the parties – lecturers union, university managers and the government – have demonstrated that where there is will, there is a way. Read more

To Beat the Best, We Must Separate Research and Teaching Universities

Universities have recently received bad press. The Commission for University Education (CUE), an outfit that had been dormant for years, arose from slumber and released a report that ‘suddenly’ found out that a number of university courses were either unapproved or unaccredited. Read more

Weak Education System Needs Fixing

Reports in the media revealing that nearly half of teachers trainees in different colleges who sat the Kenya National Examinations Council (Knec) exam last year failed has further unveiled the rot that had almost consumed the education system. Read more

 

15 February 2017

3 Universities Face Closure as Government Tightens on Malpractices

The Commission for University Education (CUE) and Education Ministry are mulling over shutting down three universities by not renewing their licenses. Read more

Abide By Rules or Face Closure, Varsities Told

Universities have been handed six months to comply with new requirements or face severe sanctions, which include possible closure. Read more

Fake Degrees Declaration Huge Step Backwards For Education

The declaration of fake degrees offered in Kenyan universities has disappointed parents even more than the graduates. Read more

Government Sponsored Students Find a Home at MKU

The year 2016 will go down in record as the first time that the government of Kenya took a bold attempt to enable more students attain university education. It is in the implementation of this program that a group of 1,126 students joined Mount Kenya University. Read more

I Can’t Negotiate With Lecturers over Pay

Education Cabinet Secretary has denied talks that he is involved in talks aimed at ending the lecturers’ strike. He stayed away from the talks because he does not desire to interfere with due process. Read more

Is Your University Degree Fake? CS Matiang’i Is After You!

You have every reason to worry if your university degree is fake or attained on questionable grounds. Read more

Kenyan Private Universities Join Top 200 in Africa Best Institutions in Africa in 2017

Private universities in Kenya are among the top 200 best institutions in Africa in 2017, according to a report by uniRank, a web-based higher educational ranking organisation. Read more

Ministry’s Pursuit to Cleanse Varsities from Rot to Continue

Education Cabinet Secretary said the government will stop at nothing in its bid to clear the rot in local universities. Read more

Only Monkeys ‘Studying’ In Universities, Uasu Says As Strike Bites

Negotiations to end the lecturers’ strike collapsed last week after the government declined to accept demands. Read more

Postgraduate Students Also to Blame for Poor Completion Rates

In an audit of universities recently released by Education Cabinet Secretary, a number of “irregularities” with regard to certification, examination, duration of courses and admissions were exposed. Read more

Reduced Budget Puts Damper on Student Funding Plans

Plans by Kenya’s Higher Education Loans Board, or HELB, to implement the differentiated unit cost funding model biased towards science and technology programmes and introduce loans to students abroad seem destined to falter after the government moved to reduce the budget allocation to the board by US$90 million for the upcoming 2017-18 financial year. Read more

Revamp of Varsity Education to Start as New Team Formed

A joint working group has been constituted to monitor the implementation of the audit report on state of higher learning that was released. Read more

Time to Clear Rot in Running of Universities

University education is at a crossroads and radical measures must be taken to clean up the mess and restore sanity to the sector. Read more

University Audit a Big Step Forward

The recent university audit by the Commission for University Education (CUE) is a step in the right direction. Read more

University Audit Reveals Litany of Problems

Kenyan universities have been given 30 days to outline corrective measures to address a litany of misdemeanours ranging from flouting of admission criteria to ‘rampant’ abuse of executive degree programmes, the offering of unaccredited programmes as well as the failure to follow rules for student-to-staff ratios. Read more

Universities Flouting Admission Rules, CUE Report States

A report by the higher education regulator accuses universities of failing to adhere to admission criteria. Read more

Universities Told Not to Increase Allowances

Universities have been asked not to increase house allowance for their staff and instead focus on raising their salaries in a bid to end their month-long strike. Read more

 

31 January 2017

By Blocking Professionals from Approving Universities, MPs Restored Autonomy

By blocking professional bodies from approving and accrediting university courses, the National Assembly has shown uncharacteristic acuity and set the tempo for reforms in the management of our institutions of higher learning. Read more

Courses to Determine Lecturers’ Pay

University lecturers’ salaries will be based on the course taught as a new funding formula for the institutions takes effect in the new financial year that starts in July. Read more

Government to Audit Private and Public Universities

The way in which universities in the country conduct their business is set to change drastically as the government embarks on an audit of both public and private institutions of higher learning starting Monday. Read more

Helb Directed To Spend Entire Sh900 Million from Government on Student Loans

The Higher Education Loans Board (Helb) has been directed to spend the entire Sh900 million it received from the government on loans to college students. Read more

Joy As Turkana Varsity Is Gazetted

Residents of Turkana County have a reason to smile after the region’s only public university was gazetted as a constituent college of Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology. Read more

Matiang’i Calls For Dialogue to End Lecturers Strike

Lecturers have vowed to continue with their strike, ignoring an appeal by Education Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i to suspend it for dialogue. Read more

Matiang’i Directs CUE to Implement Credit Transfer Programme

Education Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has directed the Commission for University Education (CUE) to start implementing a university credit transfer programme. Read more

Ministry Uses Money to Woo More Students to Study Science, Math

Students pursuing science courses in universities will from July receive more funding than those taking humanities. Read more

Prison Term Gives Father Chance to Pursue Degree

When he sat his Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examination at Kodiaga Prison in Kisumu, Mr Aggrey Ondego’s mind was more on the certificate than the grade. Read more

Reduced KCSE Qualifiers Chance for Universities to Change Tack

Debate has been raging over the future of the private universities and the parallel degree programmes in public universities following the drop in the number of last year’s Form Four candidates who met the entry requirement. Read more

Staff Strike Paralyses Public Universities

Learning was paralysed in Kenyan public universities after unions representing both the institutions’ teaching and non-teaching staff announced a nationwide strike over salaries. Read more

TUM Ordered To Pay Ex-VC Mwatelah over Unlawful Sacking

Technical University of Mombasa has been ordered to compensate former Vice Chancellor Josphat Mwatelah for unfair dismissal. Read more

Universities’ Future Lies In Innovation

Discussions on the role of higher education in Kenya tend to hark back to quality assurance. Seeking to improve quality is important. But the larger issue is whether the education system meets contemporary economic and social needs. Read more

 

15 November 2016

Clean Up Higher Education

Moi University’s announcement that it is shutting down two campuses is a clear sign of a deeper malaise in the country’s university education system. Read more

Employment Will Never Make You Rich

Today, our country is soaring with universities and other institutions of higher learning more than any other time in history. Read more

Forum of Varsity Chancellors to Spur Education

University chancellors have formed a forum that will help the national government actualise national goals in education. Read more

Higher Grades Proposed for Trainee Teachers

The entry grade for people wishing to join the teaching profession will be raised if proposals by the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development are adopted. Read more

Kisii University Suspends 40 Students for Leading Strike

Kisii University has suspended 40 students for engaging in protests that led to closure of the institution two weeks ago. Read more

Moi University’s Kericho, Nakuru Campuses to be Closed

Moi University has announced the closure of its Kericho and Nakuru campuses, citing lack of students. Read more

Talks on Status of Higher Education in Kenya Set

 Kenya is set to hold a conference on the status of the country’s university education starting tomorrow. The four-day conference, organised by the Commission for University Education (CUE), is expected to provide a platform to address key issues in higher education. Read more

USIU Unveils State-Of-The-Art Student Centre

United States International University-Africa has unveiled a state-of-the-art student facility designed to concentrate student services and recreational facilities under one roof. Read more

Universities Warned Not to Admit Unqualified Politicians

Education Cabinet Secretary has cautioned universities against admitting unqualified students, especially politicians who he said are keen to acquire certificates ahead of the next general election. Read more

We Need Sanity in Higher Education

The closing of 11 university campuses offering questionable degree programmes is a timely intervention to clear the mess in higher education. Read more

World Bank Shines Torch on Helb Cash and High Expenses

The Higher Education Loans Board (Helb) is spending more time and money on administrative costs at the expense of issuing loans to students joining universities. Read more

 

31 October 2016

State Probes Public Varsities over Poor Cash Handling Claims

The Government has launched ‘special investigations’ into the financial accounts of some of the public universities. Read more

State Sets Aside Sh500 Million for HELB Loans to Vocational Training Students

Deputy President announced that the government has set aside Sh500 million for loans to students selected to join the various technical training institutes (TTIs) across the country. Read more

Teachers Attaining Higher Qualification Won’t Be Automatically Promoted

Teachers pursuing higher education have been taken aback after their union leaders agreed to their employer’s demand that higher qualification should not be a basis for promotion. Read more

Uhuru Urges Varsity Students Abroad to Apply for HELB Loans

President Uhuru Kenyatta has urged Kenyan students studying in foreign universities to apply for loans at the Higher Education Loans Board. Read more

Universities Open Doors to Business Opportunities

In what seems to be a growing trend in Kenya, public universities are actively seeking investments in a range of sectors including manufacturing, real estate and agriculture. Read more

UoN and DAAD Review Partnership

The University of Nairobi and German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) have reviewed their partnership that has existed over 40 years. Read more

UoN Joins League of Top World Research Universities

The University of Nairobi is officially admitted to the World Universities Network (WUN). This was after an assessment by the Global Universities Network. Read more

UoN to Partner with Debre Markos University

The University of Nairobi will collaborate with Ethiopia’s Debre Markos University in the areas of teaching, research, staff and student exchange programs. Read more

UoN and Hokkaido University to Collaborate

University of Nairobi and Hokkaido University have commenced discussions on collaboration majorly on student exchange. Read more

What Varsities Should be Doing

The deterioration of employment prospects for the youth is expected to be worse in developing countries, where official unemployment figures understate the severity of youth labour market challenges. Moreover, the informal sector, which creates about 90 per cent of the new jobs, does not pay young people enough to get themselves out of poverty. Read more

Youth Challenged to Know and Exercise Their Civil Rights

The University of Nairobi’s Youth Alliance for Leadership and Development in Africa (YALDA) organized a one day conference themed, ‘Empowering the youth on civil rights through education, advocacy and leadership’. Read more

 

30 September 2016

Agency to Probe Funds Misuse at Universities

The national government has ordered a special investigation into financial mismanagement at several public universities. Read more

Court Orders Prof Thairu to Resign as CUE Chairman in 10 Days

A Nairobi court has ordered Commission for University Education chairman Henry Thairu to resign from his position in 10 days. Read more

Eight Colleges Set to Receive Charters

Eight colleges are set to become fully-fledged universities. Read more

Ethnic Universities Are Untenable, Unacceptable

Two governors and several MPs yesterday stormed Moi University to stop newly appointed acting vice chancellor Laban Ayiro from taking over. Read more

HELB Tightens Noose on Diaspora Defaulters

The Higher Education Loans Board has set its sights on defaulters living abroad after the debt collectors it hired two financial years ago helped recover Sh455 million. Read more

Matayos MP Castigates Kalenjin Leaders over Moi University VC Debacle

Matayos MP has described as an act of bad faith, the plot by a section of leaders from the Kalenjin community to reject the acting Moi University vice chancellor. Read more

Our Universities Have Been Reduced to Tribal Fiefdoms

It is unfortunate that some people consider Prof Laban Ayiro unfit to be vice chancellor — acting or otherwise — of Moi University in Eldoret. Read more

Politicians Storming Moi University Was Not a Right Move

The university is a national institution and cannot be run like a village baraza. Read more

State-Financed Varsity Students Get Sh1.6bn

HELB has released Sh1.6 billion to 101,938 government-sponsored continuing students in public universities. Read more

Tight Security at Moi University to Lock Out Politicians from Attending Graduation

The decision was reached following threats by the North Rift politicians to disrupt the event because of a row involving the appointment of Laban Ayiro as the acting vice chancellor. Read more

USIU Fees Cause Uproar

Parents of students admitted to the United States International University (USIU)-Africa under the government-sponsored programme are up in arms for what they claim are high additional fees charged by the university. Read more

Varsities Have to Brand to Survive the Tough Times

The recently concluded conference on the State of Higher Education in Kenya held at Kenyatta University was, perhaps, the most significant event in higher education this year. Read more

Varsity Students to Demonstrate about Delayed Loans

University students have threatened to march to Anniversary Towers on Tuesday to demand audience with the Higher Education Loans Board (Helb) over delayed disbursement of this semester’s allocations. Read more

 

15 September 2016

Ex-Police Boss Kimaiyo among Students to Graduate with PhDs from UoN

Former Inspector General of Police among the 57 PhD students expected to graduate from the University of Nairobi. Read more

Funding Crisis Puts University Quality at Risk

Kenyan universities are facing a fresh financial crisis following revelations contained in a recent national audit that they are operating at a deficit of over US$100 million, with serious consequences for education quality. Read more

Group Calls for Probe into Academic Qualifications of Nyeri Deputy Governor

A human rights group has written to the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) seeking investigations of the academic qualifications of Nyeri Deputy Governor and the citizenship of a county executive. Read more

HELB Fines Are Unfair to Unemployed Graduates

While Kenyans are still excited about reduced interests rates, the Higher Education Loans Board continues to fine unemployed youth Sh5,000 a month on top of the agreed interest rate for failing to clear their loans after university studies. Read more

HELB Launches Electronic Loan Management Programme

The Higher Education Loans Board (Helb) has launched an electronic financial literacy programme aimed at helping university students efficiently manage their loans. Read more

Jobs That Didn’t Exist 10 Years Ago

Nothing is permanent except change, so goes the saying. And change has been the constant in the careers arena over the years, with some jobs emerging every day while others fade into extinction. Read more

Part-Time Lecturers on Way out In Bid to Boost Quality

Part-time lecturers will soon be locked out of universities as the higher education regulator moves in to ensure that those teaching in the institutions meet minimum requirements. Read more

Report Highlights Dire Shortage of Professors and PhDs

A crisis is looming in Kenyan universities over the shortage of professors, low numbers of qualified lecturers and low numbers of PhD students in both public and private universities, according to a recent report. Read more

University of Nairobi Ranked the Best in East Africa

The University of Nairobi has been named the best institution in Kenya and East Africa, in the latest ranking by Webometrics. Read more

 

31 August 2016

120 Kenyan Students to Leave for China for Higher Education

A ceremony was held at the Chinese Embassy in Kenya bid farewell to 120 Kenyan students who have received scholarships to study in China. Read more

3,800 Moi University Staff Stare at Job Losses

More than 3,800 casual workers at Moi University’s main campus are likely to lose their jobs if their employer adopts a plan to outsource cleaning and catering services. Read more

Crisis in Kenya Universities Due to Shortage of Professors

A new report indicates many students from local universities even graduate without having a personal interaction with a professor. Read more

Defaulting Could Deny Your Child HELB Funds

Students seeking financial aid from the Higher Education Loans Board and whose parents are defaulters will only access the money once their parents start to repay their loans. Read more

Education CS Orders VCs to File Varsity Data

Education Cabinet Secretary has directed vice-chancellors to file quarterly reports to chancellors on the performance of their universities. Read more

Edulink International College Inks Deal With University of Northampton to Offer UK Degrees Locally

Kenyans with a thirst for an international qualification can now access more options after Commission for University Education granted a go ahead to University of Northampton to offer degree courses in collaboration with Edulink International College. Read more

Equity Group Sponsors 64 Students to Top US Universities

Equity Group has sponsored 64 students to top universities in the United States such as Harvard, Yale, Stanford and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) as it pushes to develop top talent under its leadership programme. Read more

Experts Converge in Nairobi on Status of University Education

Education experts converged at Kenyatta University for a first conference on status of education in the country. Read more

Future of Innovation in Varsities Lies In Cooperation with Business

The increasing demand for university education in Africa and the huge intersecting challenges remain unparalleled, giving new impetus to the search for solutions. Read more

HELB Raises Minimum Varsity Cash Allocation to Sh40, 000

The Higher Education Loans Board (Helb) has raised its credit allocation per student by up to Sh10, 000 amid rising costs in university life. Read more

MKU Starts Partnership with US Universities

Mount Kenya University (MKU) has entered into partnership with two leading universities in the United States that will enable the institutions to share facilities and have exchange programmes for students. Read more

Mombasa County Enters Partnership with Malaysian Varsity

The Mombasa County has entered into a partnership with a Malaysian university in a deal that will have students from the county wishing to study at the institution pay less fees. Read more

Only Five Varsities Have Complied With Cohesion Law

Only five out of 33 public universities have complied with law on national cohesion. Read more

President Uhuru Kenyatta Urges University Students to Shun Tribalism

President Uhuru Kenyatta has urged university students to shun tribalism and work together as Kenyans to achieve their dreams. Read more

Private Universities to Admit State-Funded Students

Kenya’s President Uhuru Kenyatta has given the go-ahead to the admission of 10,000 state-funded students at private universities. Read more

PS Had Interest in Tender, Says Suspended Don

Former Technical University of Mombasa (TUM) Vice-Chancellor claimed he was suspended months after declining Higher Education Principal Secretary directive that he influence the award of multi-million shilling tenders. Read more

Remove Politics from Education to End Ethnicity at Universities

Many readers were rightly shocked by media reports that most of Kenya’s universities fail the ethnic diversity test. Read more

 Stop Fighting, Teach Instead, Matiang’i Tells Lecturers

Education CS Fred Matiang’i has expressed concern that public universities staff were wasting valuable time fighting instead of teaching and conducting research. Read more

Students Won’t Be Admitted For Courses They Didn’t Choose – Placement Service

Students will not be placed in courses they did not choose, the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service has said. Read more

Universities Accused of Introducing Unnecessary Courses to Make Money

Report by university education regulator indicates institutions have adopted new way to make money by having courses that are not market-driven. Read more

Universities Facing Serious Financial Crisis

Kenya’s universities are facing a serious financial crisis, operating on a Sh9 billion deficit, which undermines their ability to offer quality education and training and conduct research. Read more

We Can Admit 20,000 Students, Private Universities Now Declare

Private universities have declared a capacity of 20,000 to absorb 10,000 government sponsored students set to join the institutions next month. Read more

 

31 July 2016

Kenyatta University Staff Stage Match, Call for Disbandment of University Council

For the second day running, Kenyatta University staff members staged a match against the university council calling for its immediate disbandment and reconstitution to ensure transparent and fare appointment of the university vice chancellor. Read more

Public University Lecturers Issue Strike Notice

The newly elected Universities Academic Staff Union (UASU) National Secretary General says the UASU members are likely to down tools by September 2016 if the government fails to implement what they had bargained for. Read more

University of Nairobi’s Cyber-Attack Contained

The attacker demanded a ransom of Sh700, 000 with threats of worse consequences if the institution did not yield to his demands. Read more

US$20 Million for University’s Confucius Centre Upgrade

The government of China is investing a massive US$20 million in the University of Nairobi’s Confucius Institute, one of the big education projects by the Chinese in Africa. Read more

Varsity Students Protest as Lecturers down Tools over Pay Dispute

The tutors say they have not been paid from as long as 2013 and some are owed up to Sh2 million in arrears by the institution. Read more

You May Soon Need Helb Nod to Marry

It might soon be a requirement to produce a loans board compliance certificate before one can tie the knot. Read more

 

15 July 2016

Enactus Entrepreneurship Programme Targets 5,000 Students

Enactus Kenya, an organization that promotes entrepreneurship among youth, targets to empower 5,000 students in Kenya. Read more

French Give US$30 Million Credit for University Growth

The French Development Agency, or AFD, has given a US$30 million concessional credit line to commercial banks in Kenya to finance new and ongoing university infrastructure investment initiatives in strategic faculties. Read more

KUCCPS Gives 74,046 Students Nod for Higher Education

The number of students sponsored by the government to pursue various courses in post-secondary institutions of learning will sharply shoot up when the government unveils funding framework for students in private universities. Read more

Matiang’i Orders Reinstatement of Sacked UoN Deputy VC

Education Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has ordered the University of Nairobi (UoN) council to immediately reinstate sacked Deputy Vice-Chancellor. Read more

Mps Seek To Push Back Degree Condition To 2022

MPs have ganged up to delay the requirement that they hold a degree to run for office. Read more

State Plan to Push Up Cost of University Education

The cost of university education is expected to rise after the government introduces the Differentiated Unit Cost (DUC) financing model, which will see students pursuing science, medicine, engineering and related programmes in public universities paying more for their education. Read more

USIU VC, Manu Chandaria Lead Students in Demo against Land Grabbing

The USIU-A community held demonstrations on Wednesday against a private developer’s attempt to grab the university’s land. Read more

 

30 June 2016

Biometric Registration Will Streamline Higher Education

Cabinet Secretary for Education copied the media a rather innocent letter sent to the Commission for University Education (CUE), which will radically change the education system. Read more

Moi University’s Jairo Moses’ Supporters Prove the Strength of Comrades Power

It was business unusual for Moi university administration officials after a memo calling for the suspension of the academics director, under unclear circumstances. Read more

Students Shun Garissa University in September Intake

Students set to join universities in September have shunned Garissa University College, dealing a blow to government efforts to revive the institution a year after a deadly terrorist attack there. Read more

Universities Mull over Sh3b French Facility

Local public and private universities have received with mixed reactions a $30 million (Sh3.03 billion) low-interest credit facility that the French government has availed for lending to higher institutions of learning to develop and expand infrastructure. Read more

Uon to Build a Sh2bn State-Of-The-Art Confucius Institute, After Signing Deal

The University of Nairobi has signed an agreement with the Executive Bureau of International Economic Cooperation, Ministry of Commerce, Beijing, China, on the construction of a Sh2 billion state-of-the-art Confucius Institute Building at the institution. Read more

 

15 June 2016

Board to Eliminate Internship Loans for Students

Internship loans to undergraduate students will be phased out in the next two years. Read more

Confusion at Moi University as Retired Vice Chancellor ‘Returns’

The row between staff and management at Moi University on Monday took a dramatic twist when outgoing Vice-Chancellor made an about-turn and took back his position. Read more

Diploma ‘Disease’ Is Stunting Development

Nothing demonstrates the depth and breadth of colonialism in modern Africa than formal academic education and the privileges that accrue to the few who pursue it to the highest level. Read more

HF Foundation Developing Occupational Standards for Technicians

Housing finance has steered the building and construction industry in developing a new set of building and construction occupational standards. Read more

Kaimosi College Declines to Relocate to New Land

The fate of the 114-year-old Kaimosi Teachers Training College hangs in the balance due to its tussle over land with a university. Read more

Kenya’s R&D Seeks Higher Education Laurels

Expanding sciences, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) initiatives and promoting research and development (R&D) collaboration between the academic and business communities, in particular, could narrow the skills gap and improve student outcomes. Read more

Like All Public Entities, Varsities Must Have Financial Transparency

For a long time, university finances have been treated with needless opacity, like military budgets. Read more

Poor Course Choices to Blame for University Dropouts

Kisii professor has outlined poor course choices as the main reason to increased rate of university dropouts. Read more

Varsity Seeks Support towards Nairobi Innovation Week

In preparation for the Nairobi Innovation Week 2016, the University of Nairobi is seeking support from various stakeholders. Read more

Who Knows These Kenyan Universities?

Kenya has 22 public universities, 14 chartered private universities and 12 universities with Letter of Interim Authority (LIA). Read more

Zetech Varsity Vice Chancellor Urges State to Set Up Talent Academies in Counties

Zetech University vice chancellor is rooting for the establishment of talent academies in all counties. Read more

 

15 May 2016

Commission Has Set the Bar Too High For Master’s Degree Students

The requirement that master’s students should publish a paper in a refereed journal before they can graduate is setting the standard for a master’s degree far too high. Read more

It Is Time to Rescue the Academe from These Careerist ‘Professors’

There is a justifiable concern that unless our universities get serious, the title “professor” will lose the aura and nobility it ought to have. Read more

Kenyan and Chinese Universities Confirm Deal to Train Oil Experts

China University of Petroleum has entered into a partnership with Mount Kenya University (MKU) on training of experts in the oil industry. Read more

Science Degree Students to Pay Higher Fees in New Varsity Plan

University students will soon be charged fees according to the nature of the degrees they pursue. Read more

Spike in University Enrolment Brings New Challenges

Kenya’s total university student enrolment rose 22.8% last year, marked by increased female enrolment and driven by massive infrastructure development, the introduction of new courses and the opening of more satellite campuses. Read more

TUM VC Josphat Mwatelah Sacked Over Abuse of Office Questions

Education Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has finally sacked embattled Technical University of Mombasa (TUM) Vice-Chancellor Josphat Mwatelah. Read more

Why Graduate Students Must Publish Their Work in Journals

It is in the interest of our universities to be involved in all these efforts to make higher education worthy. Read more

 

30 April 2016

CBK Launches Six-Month Training for University Students

The Central Bank of Kenya on Tuesday April 19, launched a six-month Internship Program dubbed (CBKIP) that seeks to develop youth between 21 to 29 years. Read more

Find Out How University Students Are Blowing Away HELB Fund

There is a concern over the rise in misuse of HELB loans among students across Kenyan universities. Read more

Focus on Job Market Oriented Courses, Varsities Told

Universities and middle level colleges have been challenged to put more emphasis on courses that are in line with the current job market demand. Read more

Gov’t Sets Up Professional Programmes Accreditation Committee

The government has set up a standing committee to harmonise the accreditation of professional and technical programmes in institutions of higher learning. Read more

It’s Careless to Blame Student Leaders for Rot in University

The only university whose chancellor is President Uhuru Kenyatta was closed due to student unrest. Read more

Kenyatta University Has Built for the Future

The university has gone from an artsy, social-cultural specialising institution, and is now bulking up on science and business, which is the direction in which the world is moving. Read more

Kisii University, an Island of Tranquility

Misunderstandings between university administrations and students, according to students, has been sighted as the major cause of the conflicts. Read more

Ministry of Education Will Not Intervene In University Strikes

The education cabinet secretary, has stated that public universities have competent councils and senates that can handle the disagreements in their institutions. Read more

Moi University to Sue Council over Course Rule

Moi University has threatened to sue the Council of Legal Education after being directed not to offer law courses, sparking a fresh row. Read more

MPs Want Task Force Formed to Probe Universities’ Unrest

A section no Members of Parliament now want the government to form a task force to investigate the rising cases of unrest in public universities. Read more

Multi-Million-Dollar Hostel Project for Five Universities

Kenya has kicked off a multi-million-dollar push to develop student hostels in five public universities by tapping into private funds, with the ultimate goal being to drive up enrolments. Read more

Our Operations in Rwanda Are Legal

Recently, the Kenyan parliament launched investigations into operations of two Kenyan public universities holding campuses in Rwanda and Tanzania. Read more

Quality of Education in Varsities and Colleges Needs Urgent Review

In the wake of the ongoing debate on the reform of Kenya’s school curriculum, this may be the appropriate time to address the factors contributing to the declining quality of education in institutions of higher learning. Read more

Team Found to End Rows over University Course

A committee was set up to harmonise the accreditation of professional and technical programmes in institutions of higher learning. Read more

Uninformed Selection, Parental Pressure Leads to Poor Career Choice

His father is a magistrate and his sister an advocate, so Brian Chweya was naturally motivated to study law. Read more

University Expansion Plans Put on Hold

The Medical Practitioners and Dentists Board (MPDB) and the Commission for University Education (CUE) have denied Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (Mmust) a licence to start a medical school this year. Read more

UON Defies Student Calls to Re-Open

The University of Nairobi vice-chancellor, has issued a directive confirming that the institution remains closed following students’ unrest. Read more

UoN to Re-Open After Unrest Forced Closure

The University of Nairobi is set to re-open after it was closed following students unrest in the wake of contested SONU elections. Read more

Varsity Staff Go on Strike to Demand Hardship Allowances

Staff at Laikipia University in Nyahururu have gone on strike to protest the failure by the management to pay them hardship allowances. Read more

 

15 April 2016

Engineering Students ‘in Limbo’ With No Board

The government’s failure to appoint new members to the Engineers Board of Kenya seven months after its term expired has hurt universities and colleges offering engineering courses. Read more

Exam Board Dissolved and Senior Officers Arrested

The Kenya National Examinations Council’s board was dissolved on 24 March over the irregularities that marred national examinations in 2015. Read more

Kenya Marks Garissa university Massacre Anniversary

Kenyans on Saturday commemorated the first anniversary of a terrorist attack that killed 148 people, mostly students, at a university in Garissa. Read more

MKU Introduces New Graduate Courses Relevant for the Labour Market

Mount Kenya University has introduced new graduate courses in line with the university’s five year strategic plan.Read more

KCB Partners with University to Assist in Admission of Students

University of Nairobi (UoN) has entered into partnership with a bank to ease the admission of self-sponsored students. Read more

Private Universities Might Enroll State-Funded Students

The Government is exploring ways in which private universities can enrol State-funded students. Read more

Technical Grads Get Jobs ‘Faster’ Than Degree Holders

Graduates from technical and vocational institutions have higher chances of getting employed than university graduates. Read more

University Bosses Agree on New Tuition Fee Model

Kenya’s public universities have agreed on a new tuition fee model that will see students pay fees based on the courses they undertake. Read more

University of Nairobi Suspends 139 More Students Over Chaos

The University of Nairobi (UoN) has suspended 139 more students just a day after the varsity suspended 62 others over the recent chaos in the institution following a disputed student union’s election. Read more

UoN Students Blame Administration for Woes

Suspended University of Nairobi (UoN) students claim impending examinations and failure by Vice-Chancellor to rein in the notorious gangs that have gained a foothold in the students halls of residence are the main reasons that triggered the two–day strike. Read more

Varsity Chaos in Second Day as Students Defy Vacate Order

The university, located in Nyahururu, was closed down indefinitely after students went on the rampage to protest what they claimed was a move by the institution to offer courses not recognised by the Commission for University Education (CUE). Read more

 

1 April 2016

Dons Laud State Directive on Opening Campuses

University lecturers have welcomed the government’s recent move stopping the opening of additional university campuses and satellite colleges. Read more

Ex-Kenyatta University VC Olive Mugenda Turns Down Ksh 100M Retirement Package

Former Kenyatta University Vice Chancellor Prof. Olive Mugenda has declined a Ksh 100 million send off package awarded to her by the institution as appreciation for her exemplary performance as she retires. Read more

JKUAT Nakuru Campus Students Go on A Rampage

Learning was Tuesday paralysed at the Jomo Kenyatta University of Science and Technology (JKUAT) Nakuru CBD campus after students went on a rampage. Read more

Kenya Has Miles to Travel Before Becoming Global Innovation Force

Kenya has established itself as an important regional player on the continent. The turn of the century marked an economic revival that has been accompanied by a rise in citizens’ expectations. Read more

Kenyatta University Win inaugural Nyeri Sevens

Kenyatta University won the inaugural Nyeri Sevens rugby tournament after beating their arch-rivals Kenya Methodist University (Kemu) in a thrilling game at Kabiruini showground. Read more

Kenyatta University Vice Chancellor Prof. Olive Mugenda ‘Retires’ From Service

Kenyatta University Vice Chancellor Prof. Olive Mugenda retires from office today (Friday, March 18th, 2016) after serving for 10 years, but a fresh row has erupted between her and the University Academic Staff Union over the send off gift that the university’s Senate Council is intending to award her. Read more

MPs Probe Kenyan Varsities’ Campuses In Rwanda, Tanzania

A parliamentary watchdog has launched investigations into how two Kenyan public universities invested millions of shillings to set up campuses in Rwanda and Tanzania. Read more

Our Varsities Call for a Total Overhaul

Education Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i’s in-tray has been piling by the day with rot and institutional failure at the key education agencies. Read more

Student Loans Agency in Urgent Funding, Recovery Drive

Kenya’s Higher Education Loans Board, the agency that disburses student loans on behalf of the government – has launched a fresh drive to attract millions of dollars in long-term funds and recover more than US$120 million in loans. Read more

Universities Grow but Skills Pool Shrinks

Despite the rapid expansion of Kenyan higher education in the last two decades, universities have failed to produce employable graduates and there is a shrinking supply of skilled labour. Read more

Varsity Students Stage Play, Wash Rooms to Raise Money for Orphans

Maseno University Christian Union students staged a play and went around cleaning fellow students’ rooms the whole weekend in order to raise money for orphans. Read more

We Should Give Higher Education Priority and Give it More Funding

The main problem isn’t that the number of public universities has gone up or that the number of students joining public universities has increased. Read more

 

15 March 2016

7 Funny Time Wasters You Will Find In Campus

Findings from a recent study revealed that university students do not sleep and your guess is right; it is not for all the good reasons. Read more

African Virtual University to Launch New Portal for Mass Learning

The continent’s pioneer E-learning institution of higher education, African Virtual University (AVU) will launch a new online portal to deliver Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) targeted at increasing training opportunities in various fields. Read more

Agency Seeks Universities to Set Up Konza Campuses

Kenya’s KES595.8 billion (US$5.8 billion) Silicon Valley, Konza, is seeking local and international universities to set up campuses on its vast land. Read more

Better School Results Pile Pressure on University Places

Kenyan universities face a heavy burden this year as they prepare to enroll the highest ever number of students to qualify for university, following improved performance in the 2015 school-leaving examinations. Read more

Degree is Good but Technical Skills are Needed

The mismatch between skills needed in the job market and what some of our universities and colleges are offering is of great concern. Read more

Government Bans Opening of More Satellite Campuses

Many satellite campuses in Kenya are said to have watered down the quality of higher education in the country. Read more

JKUAT Admin Warns Rioting Students Who Stole Poisonous Lab Rabbits

JKUAT students went on strike following the death of a comrade allegedly in the care of the university hospital. In the midst of the chaos – where students engaged police in running battles – some bright guys though the best place to loot was the lab. Read more

Kebs Pushes for University Standards to be Mandatory

Kenya Bureau of Standards (Kebs) has raised alarm over the slow uptake of the ISO 9001:2015 series of standards by universities despite heavy sensitisation. Read more

Kenyan Varsity Lines Up Events to Mark 1st Anniversary Since Terror Attack

Garissa University College in northeast Kenya said Monday it has organized a series of events to mark the first anniversary since the Al-Shaabab militia attack on April 2, 2015 that resulted in the killing of 148 students. Read more

Matiang’i Asks Universities to Take Role in School Curriculum Review

Universities have been urged to play a leading role in the ongoing review of the school curriculum. Read more

Matiangi Enlists Students in War on Corruption

After ordering that no more satellite higher learning campuses will not be registered, Education CS Fred Matiangi has now devised a way on how his Ministry will be monitoring funds allocated to public schools. Read more

MKU Opens Virtual Varsity Call Centre

Mount Kenya University’s Virtual Varsity has unveiled a new, ultra-modern call centre to improve services to students, guardians and parent. Read more

Moi University Students Protest Absence of Lecturers

Students of Moi University, Eldoret, rioted on against the two-month absence of lecturers over a salary dispute. Read more

Non-Payment of Lecturers Shows Depth of Rot in Universities

If there is a problem that epitomises just how low the university system in Kenya has sunk, it undoubtedly must be the non-payment of salaries of part-time lecturers. Read more

We Will Re-Align University Courses To Kenya’s Needs

Education Cabinet Secretary launched the first baseline survey of engineering departments. Read more

 

29 February 2016

Machakos Varsity Closed After Students Burn Offices

Machakos University College was closed indefinitely after arsonists burnt offices and vital procurement documents to protest against botched polls. Read more

Matiang’i Upgrades Eight Technical Institutes to National Polytechnics

The Ministry of Education on Thursday upgraded eight technical training institutes to national polytechnics, bringing the number to 10 in the country. Read more

Student Loans Agency Targets Driving Licences To Recover Cash

Kenyans who have defaulted on their loans from the Higher Education Loans Board will not be allowed to renew their driving licences this year. Read more

Universities Cautioned Over Setting Up Campuses Outside Kenya

The Commission for University Education (CUE) has cautioned public universities over setting up campuses in foreign countries, saying they will have to justify their reasons. Read more

Universities Must Tighten Belts After 3.5% Subsidy Rise

Kenya’s public universities are set for another rough year after a government decision to raise subsidies by a measly 3.5% for the coming year. Read more

University Regulations Curtailing Education Growth

University education stakeholders want the Commission for University Education (CUE) to involve them actively in the amendment of University Regulations 2014. Read more

Varsity Seeks Partnership With Prisons to Offer Degree Courses to Inmates

Prisoners in Kenya could soon graduate with degrees as the Presbyterian Church of East Africa seeks to partner with the prisons department to introduce higher education in all the prisons. Read more

Varsity Sets Up Mentorship Project

A second year construction management student at the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (Jkuat) says, through the Brighter Future Programme, made choices for her future that she would not have made if she was not part of the club. Read more

 

15 February 2016

Chuka University Closed Indefinitely Over Student Unrest

Chuka University in Tharaka-Nithi County has been closed indefinitely after students staged a protest over the disputed students’ elections. Read more

HELB Disburses Funds to 47,000 Students

The Higher Education Loans Board (Helb) has finally released money for 47,000 first year university students. Read more

Kenya Green Universities Network Launched to Promote Sustainability Practices in Higher Education Institutions

With 70 public and private universities in Kenya, there is great potential to promote sustainability both through education and practice. Read more

Limited Resources Should Not Compromise Academic Excellence

First Lady has asked stakeholders in education to ensure challenges of limited resources do not compromise academic excellence. Read more

Pursue Medical and Education Courses, Urges Matiang’i

Education Cabinet Secretary has decried the small number of people pursuing education and medical degrees, saying the country needs more. Read more

Student Survivor of Garissa College Massacre Speaks Out

The Garissa assault was one of the most serious worldwide on universities and the deadliest in Kenya since the 1998 bombings of United States’ embassies. Read more

Universities Can Do Better

Every institution worth its salt strives to excel in its core business and any external recognition is the icing on the cake. Read more

Universities Launch Movement to Mitigate Climate Change

Kenyan universities have launched an environmental movement that will focus on climate change mitigation in a bid to achieve global development targets set last year. Read more

Universities Can Do Better

Every institution worth its salt strives to excel in its core business and any external recognition is the icing on the cake. Read more

Uon Website among the Most Searched

An international website that ranks and reviews organisation has listed the University of Nairobi website among the most searched and visited in Kenya. Read more

 

January 2016

Court reinstates Prof. Olive Mugenda as Kenyatta University VC

The Labour Relations Court has reversed earlier orders sending Kenyatta University Vice Chancellor Prof. Olive Mugenda on terminal leave pending hearing of a case challenging her ouster filed by activist Okiya Omtatah. Read more

Commission for University Education Is To Blame

Between January and December 2015, the Commission for University Education (CUE) in its first satellite campus accreditation exercise, inspected a total of 56 campuses in Nairobi, Lodwar, Western, Nyanza and Rift Valley. Read more

Crackdown on Campuses a Positive Step

The Commission for University Education (CUE) ordered the closure of university campuses that did not meet the operational standards set out for institutions of higher learning. Read more

Disband Universities’ Regulatory Agency (CUE)

University in Kenya since 2012 has deteriorated completely to the extent that having a degree in Kenya has become like taking a soda in a road side kiosk. Read more

Education Team Must Do More Than Just Close Universities

Between January and December 2015, the Commission for University Education (CUE) in its first satellite campus accreditation exercise inspected a total of 56 campuses in Nairobi, Lodwar, Western, Nyanza and Rift Valley. Read more

Garissa College, Site of 2015 Terror Massacre, Reopens

Garissa University College in northeast Kenya has reopened, nine months after 147 students were killed in a brutal assault by Somalia-based al-Qaeda linked al-Shabaab Islamist militants. Read more

HELB Should Stop Deceiving Students

The Higher Education Loans Board has tremendously contributed towards assisting students from families engulfed in destitution to acquire higher education. Read more

Kenyatta University Students, Staff Asked To Remain Calm

Kenyatta University Chancellor has called for patience among staff and students during the ongoing leadership transition at the institution. Read more

Making Higher Education Affordable to the Majority Is Key to Kenya’s Growth

Any country that aspires to transform the living standards of its people must emphasise a sound educational system. Read more

Medical Schools to Be Accredited Afresh – Board

This is a joint venture with the medical and dentists councils from Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda and Burundi. We have already finalised schedule and programme. Read more

Private Universities Seek State-Funded Students Share

Private universities in Kenya are pushing to be allowed to admit state-funded students, in a bid to help ease an admissions crisis in public institutions. Read more

Professionals Raise Concern over Mushrooming Campuses in Counties

A body with representatives from all public universities in Kenya has expressed concern over mushrooming universities and middle level colleges in the country, at the expense of quality education. Read more

Quality of Higher Learning Going Down

Something is terribly going wrong with our education system as nothing Kenyans say is being taken seriously. Read more

Twelve Campuses Set For Closure Given One Year to Clean Up Act

Students at 12 university campuses that were facing closure for failing to adhere to regulations and standards got a reprieve Wednesday after the regulator and Education ministry agreed to give their institutions 12 months to comply. Read more

University Councils Are ‘Illegal’ and Will Be Disbanded

Kenya’s Ministry of Education, Science and Technology is disbanding the councils of all public universities and their constituent colleges after a court ruled that the councils, as currently constituted, are in breach of the Universities Act and the country’s constitution. Read more

University Education Must Be Reformed

The tug of war between some universities and the Commission for University Education (CUE) serves as a pointer to the probability that our higher education needs urgent reforms and streamlining. Read more

UoN emerges 6th in Africa

The University of Nairobi has been ranked 6th in Africa and number 697 in the world in the just released Webometrics Ranking. Read more

Varsity Faults Council’s Power on Accreditation

The Council of Legal Education (CLE) has no powers to conduct inspections in Universities, Moi University has claimed. Read more

WB To Give Moi University Sh600 Million

The World Bank will give Moi University Eldoret a Sh600 million grant to develop a centre of excellence for textiles and renewable energy. The money will mostly be used for research and implementation of programmes. Read more

 

December 2015

Bridging Skills Gap in Kenya’s Education Sector

This month has seen many universities in Kenya churn out graduates into the job market. After four years of undergraduate training, these students are highly expectant to join the market and reward themselves for a four-year job well done. Read more

Dons’ Shortage, Tribalism Blotting Varsity Education

Public institutions of higher learning in Kenya are inundated with challenges that incapacitate them from realising core mandate of delivering quality education and research. Read more

Education CS Matiang’i Set To Meet University Heads

Education Cabinet Secretary will meet management of public universities, the first in a series of meetings with education stakeholders. Read more

Find Creative Ways to Raise Cash for Varsities’ Expansion: Kibaki

Public universities should find innovative ways of raising funds for expansion, former President said. Read more

Relief As New Pact Saves Students in Region from Extra University Charges

Students in public universities that are members of the Northern Corridor will not be subjected to extra charges in any of the countries starting January. Read more

Universities Defy Order to Stop Diploma Courses

The directive against universities teaching diploma and certificate courses was first issued by Cabinet Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology in 2014. Read more

University Students to Pay Quality Control Fee

The Commission for University Education has introduced a quality control charge for every student, a move that will see an increase in fees. Read more

We Must Save the Quality of Our University Education, and the Time to Do That Is Now

Urgent measures are needed to enhance support to our institutions of higher learning and forestall a further slide into tribalism, nepotism, greed, and poor quality of learning and research. Read more

Why religious organisations must be active in school system

Institutions of learning such as universities and even schools have great significance in any society. It is here that the society of the future is formed. Read more

Yes, It Is Time to Audit University Education

The country needs to take an audit of the growth of universities and address the critical issues of quality and relevance. Read more

Yikes! This Tragicomedy In Kenyan Universities Is Horrible!

It took just one week for Kenyan universities to fall from their high horse of sham higher education to where they rightfully should be; the gutter. Read more

 

November 2015

Alarm Raised Over Shortage of Lecturers in Varsities The Ministry of Education has raised the alarm over the shortage of university lecturers in the country. Read more

Conflict and Crash Crunch Hit the University of Nairobi Controversy stalked the appointment of vice-chancellor of the University of Nairobi, and has followed him ever since. Read more

Creating Tertiary Education Opportunities for Refugees in Dadaab and Kakuma Strathmore University, through @iLabAfrica Research Centre, signed a memorandum of understanding with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. Read more

Does An MBA Make A Person A Better Worker Or Is It Just Hype? There was a time when the Master of Business Administration was held in high esteem, with its holders (referred to as MBAs) having an edge when it came to career advancement. Read more

Dons Taking Sides in Vice-Chancellor’s Row University of Nairobi lecturers have waded in to a row pitting Vice-Chancellor and his deputy. Read more

Government to Reform Education System to Meet Market Needs President has announced plans to reform the Kenya’s education system to make it relevant to market needs. Read more

It Will Be Difficult For University Education to Recover From Wave of Commercialisation As government support to higher education declined and perceptions of the university degree as the surest ticket to social and economic privilege gained merit, universities in Kenya made money. Read more

It’s Time Africa Addressed Her Education Woes The Fees Must Fall student protests in South Africa have highlighted the many challenges facing university education in Africa. Read more

Moi University, Toyota  Signs MOU on Fertilizer Moi University and Toyota Tsusho Fertiliser Africa Limited (TTFA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to partner in a joint trial of locally manufactured fertilizer in the University farm. Read more

Mugenda Named Best CEO For ‘Transforming KU Image’ The Institute of Certified Public Secretaries of Kenya (ICPSK) has named Kenyatta University Vice Chancellor the CEO of the Year following her “exemplary leadership.” Read more

Pope Francis to Celebrate Holy Mass At Uon His Holiness Pope Francis will celebrate Holy Mass at the University of Nairobi (UoN) grounds. Read more

Rising Cases of Sexual Abuse Frustrate Education In Mombasa The red light has been raised over the increase of sexual abuse and violence among school-going children in Mombasa. Read more

Strathmore University Celebrates the Year of the Family The family unit is central to society and the church; the challenges facing the family unit worldwide are dire. Read more

Thousands of Students Fall Victim to Accreditation Spat Some six weeks after being sent home by universities, more than 4,000 students remain excluded from their studies amid a bitter war over course accreditation between the Engineers Board of Kenya and the Commission for University Education. Read more

Varsity Launches REHAU Home gas Project The fight against global warming has received a boost following the launch of REHAU Home gas project at JKUAT. Read more

 

 

September 2015

Agony of Students Stranded in Russia More than 40 Kenyan students on government scholarships at various universities in Russia are stranded after the Ministry of Education withheld financial aid. Read more

A Tricky Balancing Act for Varsity as Cash Crisis Bites With the university having a monthly wage bill of Sh750 million and receiving only Sh438 million from the Treasury, the 59-year-old institution is left to raise the balance of Sh312 million from other sources. Read more

Days When Education Was a Status Symbol Long Gone At the university in the 1980s, our lecturer in research methods gave the class literature on development and people’s incomes. Read more

IBM’s Sh6bn Plan to Train Tech Students Takes Off Through a partnership with Kenya Education Network (KENET), the technology firm will beam out courses from a vetted curriculum on a universal cloud system in more than 50 universities in the country. Read more

Police Arrest 10 University of Nairobi Students Protesting Over Helb Loans At least 10 University of Nairobi students have been arrested after hundreds of them went on the rampage. Read more

Turkana Opens First University This is Kenya’s first university to be established in the vast, resource-rich area of north Kenya. The university established the campus in 2011, as a teaching centre for teachers. Read more

Turning Universities Into Glorified High Schools The profession of engineering in Kenya needs urgent action by policy makers to ensure fairness to all stakeholders. Read more

Universities Versus Engineering Board Row Escalates A standoff between the Engineers Board of Kenya and universities has escalated after the board refused to accredit a new list of 35 engineering courses submitted by universities for approval. Read more