Leadership Turmoil at University of Nairobi as VC Position Declared Vacant

Education

• Cedric Malan
• Apr 2, 2025
• 0 Comments

The leadership saga at Kenya's prestigious University of Nairobi (UoN) took a significant turn as the Public Service Commission (PSC) officially announced the Vice-Chancellor (VC) position as vacant. This decision follows the contentious removal of Professor Stephen Kiama, whose tenure ended under a cloud of controversy on September 27, 2024. This change is part of efforts to resolve the longstanding issues plaguing the university's administration.

Professor Kiama's removal was not without drama. The UoN Council, led by its Chairperson, Professor Amukowa Anangwe, decided his fate after a disciplinary process unveiled allegations of misconduct and insubordination, including a stark refusal to adhere to a mandated 60-day leave that was set in motion back in April 2024. As a temporary measure, Professor Margaret Hutchinson stepped into the role as acting VC in August 2024.

Challenges Beyond the Top Seat

The university is grappling with deeper systemic issues, reflected in a staggering 24 key management positions, spanning roles such as Deputy Vice-Chancellors and department directors, being held by acting officials for well beyond the legally permitted duration of six months. This state of flux has been attributed to previous administrative changes that saw essential positions abolished and new ones created without proper appointments.

Clouding the recruitment process are numerous legal entanglements. Recruitment attempts, particularly a 2023 initiative aiming to fill 24 positions, were thwarted by legal actions spearheaded by acting incumbents who challenged the process's legitimacy in court.

In a bid to bring stability, the PSC reopened applications for both the Vice-Chancellor and Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic Affairs) roles, with a deadline looming on February 11, 2025. The future leaders of UoN will inherit five-year contracts accompanied by the significant task of implementing the university's ambitious 8-Point Transformation Strategy for 2025-2026. This strategy emphasizes key areas such as digital innovation, enhanced fundraising, and bolstering academic rigor.

The unfolding saga at UoN is not unique. Other Kenyan universities including Kenyatta University and Tharaka University are simultaneously navigating similar administrative challenges, as they too re-advertise for Deputy Vice-Chancellor openings. These institutions are all striving to put their houses in order amid a complex weave of administrative, legal, and structural hurdles.