The Universities Academic Staff Union (UASU), University of Nairobi Chapter, has sounded an alarm over what it describes as a worsening leadership and financial crisis at the University of Nairobi (UoN), urging the national government to intervene before the situation escalates further.
In a statement, the union expressed concern that the institution has lacked substantive leadership since September 2024, with the Vice-Chancellor and all Deputy Vice-Chancellor positions occupied in acting capacities.
According to UASU, the prolonged reliance on temporary appointments has undermined stability and weakened the university’s ability to make critical decisions on financial recovery and strategic direction.
The union cited a February 2026 report by the Controller of Budget, which revealed that UoN is saddled with debts exceeding KSh15.9 billion, the highest among public universities in Kenya. Lecturers warned that the mounting financial strain threatens the institution’s sustainability, accusing the current leadership of failing to address or mitigate the crisis publicly.
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UASU further highlighted declining staff welfare, deteriorating student services, and a gradual erosion of the university’s academic reputation as direct consequences of the ongoing challenges. The union questioned why UoN has not received a financial bailout similar to that extended to other institutions, including Moi University.
The lecturers also challenged prominent stakeholders, many of whom are alumni, to step in and rescue the institution.
They specifically mentioned President William Ruto, Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, and Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba as leaders who should take responsibility in safeguarding the university’s future.
“The potential collapse of the University of Nairobi would represent a profound national loss,” the union warned, stressing that urgent action is needed to protect one of Kenya’s oldest and most prestigious institutions of higher learning.
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UASU’s statement comes amid growing unease among staff and students, who argue that the absence of permanent leadership has stalled reforms and left the university vulnerable to financial mismanagement.
The union insists that only decisive government intervention can restore stability, protect community interests, and preserve the institution’s reputation as a leading center of academic excellence.
By Masaki Enock
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