Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba Tuesday inaugurated newly appointed and reappointed council members at Kenyatta University, underscoring the government’s commitment to strengthening governance and sustainability in higher education institutions.
Speaking during the inauguration, CS Ogamba emphasized that university councils play a critical role in steering institutions through ongoing education sector reforms. He assured the council members of the government’s full backing as they discharge their mandate.
“We came here today to inaugurate the new council and have a conversation about the running of the university. Governance starts with the councils, and the government is 100pc behind them so that they can undertake their mandate without fear or favor,” said CS Ogamba.
The CS noted that significant progress has been made in restoring financial stability in public universities. Out of 43 universities, 23 were technically insolvent when the current administration came into office. That number has since reduced to 14, with a target to achieve full sustainability across all institutions within the next two to three years.
Among the reforms cited was the student-centered funding model and a 15pc–40pc reduction in school fees for programs, which have eased the financial burden on students and improved fee payment compliance.
At Kenyatta University, out of 10,480 newly admitted students, over 9,500 have already paid their fees. Other universities, including Meru University and Machakos University, have also reported encouraging compliance rates.
CS Ogamba reiterated the government’s pledge that no deserving student will miss university education due to financial challenges, with government support covering the remaining portion of fees not paid by students.
Looking ahead, the CS announced that next week, a national conference will be held in Mombasa to align university and tertiary education programs with market-driven job skills.
Kenyatta University Council Chairman Dr. Ben Chumo welcomed the new council members and thanked the CS for his support, noting the institution’s central role in Kenya’s education system with nearly 50,000 students enrolled.
On basic education, CS Ogamba further revealed that the government is conducting a nationwide verification of student and school data following an Auditor General’s report questioning past records.
Over 15,000 schools have already been verified to ensure accurate capitation disbursement and evidence-based policy decisions.
“This verification will enable us to plan better and avoid past challenges with delayed or insufficient capitation. Once the exercise is complete, we will have reliable data to make more effective decisions,” CS Ogamba added.
The CS thanked the media for amplifying government efforts and assured continued transparency and accountability in the education sector reforms.
