Prudent governance has been cited as a crucial factor to ensuring public universities maintain financial stability and survive periods of economic turbulence.
KCA University Vice-Chancellor (VC) Prof. Isaiah Wakindiki said that should all organs of governance in universities undertake their functions responsibly, the insolvent, debt-ridden institutions would be bailed out to prevent shutdown.
Speaking during the varsity’s 17th graduation in Ruaraka, Nairobi, Prof. Wakindiki said that most institutions of higher learning in the country are being run down by poor governance and lack of visionary leadership to steer them towards growth and stability.
“Financial distress is just a factor contributing to the collapse of institutions. If we had all organs of governance doing what they are supposed to be doing, some of the problems would not exist. Sustainability of any institution is not just anchored on finances but also in governance,” Prof Wakindiki said.
“We need leaders who are ethical. You can have good governance but have leaders who engage in unethical practices, and this will bring down institutions,” he added.
He made the remarks at a time when universities continue to stagger due to debt, accusations of tribalism in appointments and the controversial higher education funding model.
The new Higher Education Funding (HEF) model, which categorizes students into different financial bands based on their perceived need, was touted as a solution to the funding crisis plaguing Kenyan universities.
By Kamau Njoroge
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