Bumula Member of Parliament Jack Wamboka on Monday led members of the Public Investments Committee on Governance and Education to Kabianga University in Kericho and Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) in Kakamega as part of a parliamentary inquiry into the management of public resources in higher learning institutions.
The team’s visit was prompted by recent reports from the Auditor General highlighting gaps in financial accountability and stalled projects at the two universities. Lawmakers toured ongoing development projects that have been the subject of audit queries and public scrutiny due to delays in completion, despite funds having been allocated.
Speaking after the inspection, Wamboka said the oversight mission was critical in ensuring universities remain accountable to the public. He noted that while education remains a cornerstone of national development, inefficiencies and poor resource management have continued to undermine progress.
“This exercise has given us important insights into how these universities are managing public resources. Our role is to make sure every shilling is accounted for and projects funded by taxpayers are completed as planned,” Wamboka said.
The committee observed that some projects, including key infrastructure developments meant to improve learning and research, had stalled for years. Legislators expressed concern that such delays compromise the quality of education and burden students who rely on public universities for affordable training.
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Wamboka assured that the committee will compile a report with concrete recommendations to strengthen financial oversight and governance in universities. He said the findings will be tabled in Parliament to guide policy reforms and ensure greater accountability across the higher education sector.
The oversight visit also provided an opportunity for the committee to engage with university management on the challenges they face, ranging from inadequate funding to bureaucratic bottlenecks. Lawmakers, however, insisted that prudent use of available resources must remain a top priority.
“Universities play a vital role in shaping the country’s future. It is therefore unacceptable that projects stall while students struggle with limited facilities. We must ensure public money works for the people,” Wamboka added.
The committee is expected to complete its nationwide assessment of public universities before presenting its full report to Parliament. Its recommendations are anticipated to influence reforms aimed at curbing waste, enhancing transparency, and restoring public confidence in the management of higher education institutions.
By Godfrey Wamalwa
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