The Ministry of Education has announced a mass recruitment drive to fill leadership positions in public universities and constituent colleges, aiming to address ongoing governance challenges.
According to a notice published in the government bulletin MyGov, Principal Secretary for Higher Education and Research, Beatrice Inyangala, stated that the government is in the process of appointing new chairpersons and council members for these institutions.
Kenya currently has 37 chartered public universities and six public university constituent colleges, all governed by University Councils. The notice emphasized the government's intent to restructure university leadership amid ongoing disputes.
“The Ministry of Education, State Department for Higher Education and Research, is in the process of recruiting chairpersons and members of councils of public universities and constituent colleges,” the notice read.
This recruitment drive follows leadership disputes at the University of Nairobi, where Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba recently dismissed Amukowa Anangwe as Council Chairperson after protests from the University Academic Staff Union (UASU).
Under the Universities Act No. 42 of 2012, the governance of public universities is primarily overseen by University Councils. Each council consists of nine members, including the chairperson, who is appointed by the Cabinet Secretary for Education. Other members include the Principal Secretary for Higher Education (serving as an ex-officio member), five members appointed through an open process, and the Vice-Chancellor of the institution, who also serves as an ex-officio member and secretary to the Council.
According to the recruitment notice, candidates for the position of chairperson must hold a PhD from a recognized university and demonstrate a strong track record in leadership and management. Council members must have a minimum of a master’s degree (excluding executive master's) and experience in leadership and governance. All candidates must also meet the integrity requirements outlined in Chapter Six of the Constitution.
“Applicants should not be public servants or active members of any university faculty (both public and private),” the notice added.
Shortlisted candidates will be required to present key documents at the interview, including their Curriculum Vitae, Identity Card, academic certificates, testimonials, and a CUE Recognition/Equation Certificate for foreign qualifications. Additionally, successful candidates must provide a certificate of good conduct, EACC clearance, HELB clearance, KRA compliance certificate, and credit bureau clearance before their appointment.
Interested individuals must submit an application letter specifying the desired position, along with a CV and a copy of their national ID or valid passport. Applications are due at the Ministry of Education by March 4.