By Roy Hezron
Following the government’s directives to resume physical learning in universities, TTCs and TVETS, Kenya Universities Students Organization (KUSO) through their President Anthony Manyara recently gave its appeals on the reopening plan.
In a statement dated 2nd October, 2020, Manyara asked the government to ensure that the institutional capacity in universities, TTCs, and TVETs adheres to 1.5m distance policy.
The organization further urged the government to provide free certified and standard face masks and hand sanitizers. In addition, Manyara urged the government to provide technological assistance to the institutions in order to ensure more access to e-libraries and less paper interactions during teaching.
In the statement, Manyara said the main reason why there is mixed reaction on the re-opening is because the Education CS did not involve the union before making decision. He, however, suggested that the Ministry ought to have given a practical notice on the resumption of physical learning.
“To address these issues, it behooves Prof George Magoha to integrate best global experience into local developments, acknowledging the need for sincere consultation informed by values of honesty, integrity and truth as enshrined in the Constitution of Kenya 2010,” reads the statement.
In relation to student accommodation and their welfare in these learning institutions, Manyara urged the landlords and other private developers to work within the values enshrined in the Constitution and as patriots.
“We have been duly informed of some private developers taking advantage of the current crisis to squeeze comrades dry through hefty rents. This is exploitive and stifles one’s capacity to enjoy various capabilities to function as a normal human being in a new normal,” reads the statement.
The union also urged the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) to disburse universities, TTCs and TVETs student’s loan on time to cushion students against financial distress brought about by Covid-19 pandemic.
In reinstating suspended or expelled students in various universities across the country, Manyara urged all the university’s Vice-Chancellors to emulate the University of Nairobi Vice-Chancellor Prof Stephen Kiama Gitahi of recalling expelled students.
“The challenges we face as a country are more real than imagined. Nevertheless, education cannot wait. We, therefore, must align our endeavors with educational goals of Africa Agenda 2063 and SDCs on quality, timely, instrumental and fulfilling education in the face of science, technology, and innovation,” stated Manyara.
KUSO, is an umbrella body of universities’, Teacher Institutions’ (TTCs), and Technical and Vocational Training Institutions’ (TVETs) student union leaders which brings together all tertiary institutions in the country with a membership of over 5.6 Million students.
