MPs urge Coast-based higher learning institutions to diversify their sources of income for sustainability

The Public Investments Committee on Governance and Education has urged institutions of higher learning in the Coast region to deliberately diversify their sources of income to cushion themselves against delayed government disbursements and capitation.

The Committee chaired by Bumula MP Wanami Wamboka, said so during their engagement with universities and technical institutions to interrogate pending audit queries raised by the Office of the Auditor-General, while offering clear guidance on governance, compliance, and prudent management of public resources.

During the session, Members emphasised that sustainable resource mobilisation is key to protecting learning programmes, improving infrastructure and ensuring students are not negatively affected by financial shortfalls.

Institutions were urged to strategically utilise their assets and expertise to generate revenue in a transparent and accountable manner.

At Pwani University, the Committee flagged the expenditure of over Ksh 45.3 million on a stalled perimeter fence project, noting the risks of insecurity and encroachment. Management was guided on addressing the challenges surrounding the project and directed to ensure completion by June 2026, safeguarding both students and public land.

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Godoma Technical Training Institute was re-scheduled for re-appearance after failing to submit required documents to the Office of the Auditor-General within stipulated timelines. The Committee also identified errors in the documents presented, reminding management that Parliament is a House of records and that audit processes must be supported by accurate and verifiable information.

At the Technical University of Mombasa, Members questioned the prolonged acting appointment of a Procurement Officer beyond the legal six-month limit. The Committee directed that the acting position be vacated, another officer appointed, and the post filled competitively within six months. The Committee further resolved to engage the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission to interrogate emerging procurement concerns.

The Committee also raised concerns on gender imbalance, with the institution reporting a 69 per cent male dominance. Management indicated that policy interventions were being developed to support graduates’ transition into employment and promote inclusivity.

At Taveta Technical and Vocational College, the Committee instructed management to establish key departments, including Finance and Human Resource functions, and to put in place critical governance instruments such as a board charter and academic policies. The College was further directed to establish an Audit Committee to strengthen internal oversight.

Taita Taveta National Polytechnic and Technical University of Mombasa also appeared before the Committee, with Members raising concerns on governance, financial management, and compliance with existing regulations.

By Juma Ndigo