The National Assembly’s Public Investments Committee on Governance and Education has raised alarm over weak inclusivity, poor governance, and financial lapses in Kenya’s public universities and technical training institutes. Lawmakers say the institutions must urgently address issues of minority representation, staff diversity, and compliance with statutory requirements if they are to meet national standards.
During hearings in Nairobi on Thursday, officials from Maseno University and Rift Valley Technical Training Institute appeared before the Committee, chaired by Embakasi West MP Mark Mwenje. Members pressed the institutions to explain gaps in inclusivity and governance, while demanding concrete measures to correct the shortcomings.
At Maseno University, MPs questioned why persons with disabilities were absent from the leadership team. “You have come here with a full team, and there is not even one person with a disability. Tell me, how many do you have?” Mwenje asked. Vice-Chancellor Prof. Erick Nyambedha admitted the gap, saying the university is working to improve representation through inclusive hiring and partnerships with agencies supporting PWDs.
ALSO READ:
Hockey semi-finals stage set as top schools battle for Rift Valley glory in Nakuru
The Committee also scrutinized Maseno’s financial management, flagging large outstanding receivables, including unpaid student fees and funds owed by government agencies. Legislators stressed the need for stronger oversight and timely recovery of resources to safeguard the institution’s financial health.
At Rift Valley Technical Training Institute, MPs raised concerns about ethnic imbalance, noting that 81 percent of staff hail from a single community. “This is a national institution. 81 per cent is too high. We need to see this come down to 50 per cent,” Mwenje directed. Management acknowledged the imbalance and said recent recruitment efforts are aimed at diversifying staff composition. The Committee nonetheless issued a one-year deadline for measurable progress.
Lawmakers further criticised the institute for failing to submit mandatory procurement reports, rejecting claims that the lapse was caused by the death of a procurement officer. “That is not an excuse. Institutions must ensure continuity,” Committee Vice-Chair Boyd Were ruled.
ALSO READ:
Maseno University makes SHA registration mandatory for student healthcare access
Concerns also emerged over the operation of bank accounts without approval from the National Treasury. Institute officials said steps are being taken to regularise the accounts through the relevant State Department, but MPs insisted that compliance must be immediate.
Legislators warned that unless reforms are implemented, the institutions risk undermining their credibility and failing to deliver on their mandate of equitable education and training.
By Masaki Enock
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
