Why UoN Could Soon ‘Die’ Like Moi University

The Universities Academic Staff Union (UASU), University of Nairobi (UON) chapter, officials have raised concerns over mismanagement within the institution.

In a statement, the academic staff, led by the Chairperson of the Executive Committee of UASU Dr. Richard Bosire demanded the dissolution of the UON Council, citing abuse of office by its members.

Bosire called on Education CS Julius Ogamba to take swift action, emphasizing that they would not sit back and watch the university deteriorate.

He urged the minister to act immediately by disbanding the council.

“We call upon the Education CS, Julius Ogamba to take quick action. We are not ready to watch our university collapse and die in our eyes. He must take action. He should send the council home immediately,” said Bosire.

UON Lecturers Call for The Dissolution of University Council

He further cautioned against delaying action, drawing parallels with Moi University, which required a bailout only after reaching a critical state. He insisted that preventive measures must be taken before UON suffers a similar fate.

“The lack of urgency in dissolving the University Council will cripple the institution,” Bosire warned.

Additionally, Bosire urged the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to intervene, citing ongoing abuse of office by the council. He also criticized the Chancellor’s involvement in the university’s day-to-day management, arguing that his role, as defined in the University Act, does not include administrative duties.

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He expressed concern that the existence of multiple centers of power—the Council, the Vice-Chancellor, and the Chancellor—was creating confusion and weakening university management. According to him, this power struggle was a deliberate strategy to enable mismanagement and corruption.

His concerns were echoed by UON UASU Chapter Secretary Dr. Maloba Wekesa, who warned that Moi University was on the verge of collapse and that UON was heading in the same direction.

“The University of Nairobi, as we know it, is dying. That is the reality. And we are not saying this to cause panic or attract unnecessary attention, but because we care about this great national institution. The University of Nairobi has been hijacked by profiteers,” Wekesa stated.

About UON Chancellor

The current Chancellor of the University of Nairobi is Professor Patrick Verkooijen. He is the CEO of the Global Center on Adaptation and has extensive experience in climate adaptation and sustainable development.

Also Read: Govt Makes Major Changes in Moi University Leadership

Professor Verkooijen was appointed by President William Ruto and began his tenure on February 1, 2024.

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