By Steve Muthini
University of Nairobi don Dr John Musingi has observed that the future of university education in Kenya is still bright despite a proposal to increase university tuition fees and the high rate of unemployment among graduates.
He was reacting to the reactions received after a proposal emerged to increase university tuition fees from the current Shs 16,000 to ShS 48,000 annually.
Dr Musingi ,who is a dean of the faculty of Environmental Science ,said that contrary to popular perception among the public, universities do not exist to train job seekers but to dispense knowledge that will serve the society.
“Universities do not exist to train job seekers but to dispense knowledge that will serve the society.’ said Dr Musingi in an interview with this writer.
He added that the future of universities in Kenya will remain the same since students are joining universities to get knowledge.
Dr Musingi added that graduates can use the knowledge acquired at universities to create jobs.
“A well-trained engineer, for example, can start his/her factory and create jobs,” he observed.
He pointed out that there is a disconnect since Kenyan universities produce many engineers who get absorbed in the job market while others remain jobless or work in areas that do not require their expertise.
He also noted that the creation of new industries is largely being spearheaded by expatriates.
The don also pointed out that certain degree courses, that have been viewed as not marketable, are still relevant.
“Degree course such as Bsc and B.A have subjects like Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Maths, History, English, Kiswahili,” said the don.
He gave his own example saying he did BSc(Botany, Zoology and Geography) and that by the time he was graduating, he could work in many places.
“Those who do BA are working in provincial administration, immigration, land, foreign affairs and other government departments,” said Dr Musingi.
