Press Statement from the University of Nairobi
Nairobi, Kenya, 19th February 2025- In response to the misinformation and falsehoods purveyed by a few disgruntled staff of UON in a statement issued today, at 19th February, 2025 at 11:00 AM, the University of Nairobi wishes to clarify and reaffirm as follows:
The organs of the University are properly constituted and continue to fulfill their mandates in accordance with the provisions of the Universities Act, 2012, the University Charter, 2013, and other relevant laws. Contrary to the baseless allegations made, that decisions and measures are made invariably at different levels as the law and procedures stipulate. The respective roles of the Chancellor, the Council, and the Vice Chancellor are distinct and clearly defined in law and the Charter
As outlined in the Universities Act, Section 12, sub-sections 3(c) and 3(d), the Chancellor is entitled to advise the Council as needed for the betterment of the University and is entitled to certain powers and privileges as prescribed by the Charter.
Section 18 elaborates on the responsibilities of the Council, particularly in subsection 8, which empowers the Council to determine recruitment, appointment, and promotion methods for all University staff—responsibilities that do not fall under the Vice Chancellor's purview.
Additionally, Section 18(9) empowers the Chair of the Council, amongst others, to communicate Council resolutions for implementation. This does not amount to infringement on the Vice Chancellor's mandate to be CEO and head of academic affairs.
Public universities across Kenya are facing significant financial constraints. The University of Nairobi notwithstanding. We acknowledge that the University is currently navigating unprecedented financial challenges that demand urgent and decisive action. Recognizing this urgent challenge, the Government has approved a 24-month transformation agenda to be executed by the University, under the Chancellor’s titular leadership.
This initiative aims to restore financial stability and lay the foundation for long-term sustainability.
This agenda includes reforming academic programs, enhancing productivity, diversifying revenue streams including but not limited to commercialization of idle assets.
Prior to this, continuous consultations have been ongoing, involving engagements with various stakeholders, including staff, students, and industry partners. These discussions were preceded by the launch of the ‘Big 5’ transformation agenda, emphasizing the University’s commitment to inclusive decision-making. Stakeholder input remains a continuous exercise, and to further enhance participation, a series of forums and town hall meetings have been scheduled to gather additional insights and ensure the effective implementation of this transformative agenda.
It is concerning that in the face of these challenges, some disgruntled elements that have benefitted illegally from the current status quo are resisting the necessary reforms in order to perpetuate malpractice, corruption and abuse of office. We urge the University staff to refrain from perpetuating strikes to disrupt the University’s progress.
We strongly believe that the threats being issued belatedly are diversionary tactics intended to impede the transformation agenda of the University, and to protect certain individuals within the Union who are facing investigations for disciplinary actions related to allegations of financial impropriety. We call upon UASU and other stakeholders to allow investigations to proceed without obstruction and to let the law take its cause, including the intervention by relevant investigative agencies of government.
Lastly, we wish to clarify that the Chancellor serves in a pro bono capacity and does not receive any salary or benefits from the University. He is a full-time CEO, and his housing arrangements are independently provided for. His entitlement to security is aligned with that of the Vice Chancellor and other University officers.
We appeal to the unions to participate constructively in these discussions.
Thank you.
John A.O.Orindi, MCIPR
Director of Corporate Affairs
Email: johnorindi@uonbi.ac.ke
Tel-254721581030
