Government to Decentralize Selection of Public University Officials, including VCs: The Ministry of Education plans to decentralize the selection process for university officials. This will empower universities to choose their own chancellors and Vice Chancellors. The universities will also be able to choose Deputy Vice Chancellors, principals, and Deputy Principals.
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Current selection of university officials
Currently, in Kenya, various stakeholders and regulations govern the selection of university officials. They include;
- University Council: The University Council is the highest decision-making body in a university. It plays a significant role in the selection of top officials. It typically comprises members appointed by the government, representatives from the academic community, alumni, and other stakeholders. The council is responsible for appointing or approving the appointment of university officials. This includes the VC and other senior management positions.
- Cabinet Secretary for Education: The Cabinet Secretary for Education, who heads the Ministry of Education, also plays a role in the selection process. The ministry sets policies and guidelines related to higher education. The Cabinet Secretary may have oversight over the appointment process, especially for public universities.
- Public Service Commission (PSC): The PSC is responsible for overseeing the recruitment and appointment of public servants. This includes university officials from public universities. It may be involved in the selection process for VCs, DVCs, and other senior administrative positions.
- University Senates: University senates, composed of academic staff, students, and other stakeholders, may have a say in the selection process. They may provide recommendations or feedback on candidates.
- Students and stakeholders: Students and other stakeholders within the university community often advocate for their interests in the selection process. They may participate in consultations, protests, or other forms of activism. This influences decisions regarding the appointment or removal of university officials.
- Government Regulations: Government regulations, policies, and laws also shape the selection process for university officials. These regulations may stipulate eligibility criteria, appointment procedures, and the roles of various stakeholders.
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Limitations of the current selection process
The current approach, as outlined in the National Education Policy Sessional Paper 2024, has been criticized for causing delays. It also constrains academic independence and weakens accountability.
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University students have voiced their discontent with the existing selection process. There have been many protests erupting in Kenya over decisions to appoint or remove Vice Chancellors.
Unrest in universities
For instance, at the Meru University of Science and Technology, students disrupted classes in March 2023 to demand the reinstatement of VC Romanus Odhiambo.
The Meru university council had placed Professor Romanus Odhiambo on terminal leave. However, the students believed Odhiambo had improved academic standards at the institution.
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Similarly, residents and students at Moi University protested in November 2023. They were calling for the removal of VC Isaac Kosgey. The stakeholders saw many deficiencies in his university management and leadership.
These incidents underscore the importance of involving stakeholders, particularly students, in the selection of university officials to ensure transparency and accountability in the education sector.
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