Daystar University Vice Chancellor Prof. Laban Ayiro has navigated challenges, including tribal opposition, in Kenya’s academic space.
As he embarks on another five-year term as the Vice-Chancellor of Daystar University, let’s delve into the remarkable story of Laban Ayiro.
Born to modest parents, Ayiro’s intelligence led him to McGill University in Canada for his Bachelor of Education in 1984.
His academic pursuits continued with a Master of Science in Entrepreneurship from Kenyatta University, a Master of Arts in International Relations from the United States International University Africa, and he became a Doctor of Philosophy in Entrepreneurship Development obtained from Kenyatta University.
In 2013, he earned a Master of Education in Education Finance, Economics, and Planning from the University of the Witwatersrand in South Africa.
Professor Ayiro undertook a post-doctoral fellowship at Texas University in the United States, on a Fulbright Scholarship.
He has published widely, with over twenty publications in his name.
Teaching Career
Ayiro’s career began in 1977 as a Chemistry teacher, later becoming a highly regarded Principal at various Kenyan High Schools, including Lubinu Boys in Mumias, where a dormitory bears his name.
He then transitioned to the Kenyan Ministry of Education, serving in key roles such as Provincial Director of Education, Deputy Director of Staff Training, and Senior Deputy Director for Policy and Planning.
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Prof. Ayiro’s was appointed as the Vice-Chancellor of Moi University by then Education Cabinet Secretary Dr Fred Matiang’i in 2016.
However, Ayiro’s appointment was met with resistance from influential figures in the North Rift region, including Governors Jackson Mandago and Alex Toglos, MPs Oscar Sudi and Silas Tiren, and James Bett, who favored their candidate, Prof Isaack Kosgey.
Despite the opposition, Ayiro faced the challenge head-on during his 18-month tenure as Moi University’s acting vice-chancellor.
Following his ouster from Moi University, Ayiro’s journey took an unexpected turn as he assumed the role of Vice-Chancellor at Daystar University in 2019.
This transition marked a pivotal moment in his career, where he quickly earned the trust and admiration of the Daystar community.
Ayiro’s transformative leadership at Daystar University
In a surprising turn of events, locals who had once opposed him in Moi University publicly apologized, recognizing him as a victim of tribal witch-hunt.
In 2021, Ayiro and Daystar University received prestigious awards, with Ayiro being honored as the Best Vice Chancellor in Kenya at the Uongozi Awards, and the university itself being recognized as the Most Preferred University in Kenya.
Further in a recent statement on social media, Ayiro articulated his vision for the next five years at Daystar University.
Emphasizing the three constructs of wonder, worry, and wishes within the Daystar community, Ayiro envisions the development of state-of-the-art facilities, acquisition of meaningful and quality learning, and the production of impactful graduates.
His commitment extends beyond the academic realm to the intellectual, social, and spiritual formation of Daystar University.
This holistic approach, he believes, will shape the character and substance of the institution in the coming years.
Ayiro’s call to action resonates beyond the university walls. He urged students, faculty, staff, parents, and the global community at large to support him in realizing Daystar University’s vision and mission.
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Acknowledging the heavy responsibility bestowed upon him, Ayiro seeks divine guidance as he shepherds the institution forward.
Reflecting on his appointment, the vice chancellor humbly acknowledges the opportunity and expressed gratitude to the Board of Trustees and the University Council.
His plea for support underscores the collaborative effort required to make Daystar University flourish into the future.
