In a significant move aimed at strengthening governance within Kenya’s higher education sector, the Ministry of Education has announced sweeping changes to the leadership of over 17 public university councils. The appointments, published in a Gazette notice dated July 25, reflect the government’s broader push to enhance institutional management and accountability in public universities.

Education Cabinet Secretary Migos Ogamba named new council members across several key institutions. Among the notable appointments is Silas Jakakimba, a lawyer and former aide to Raila Odinga, who joins the Kirinyaga University Council alongside Ibrahim Khamis Mutwafy, Ursula Sabina Oyatsi, and Margaret Kathambi Gitonga.

At the University of Nairobi, one of the country’s largest institutions, Chacha Nyaigotti-Chacha has been appointed as the Non-Executive Chairperson. He will serve with Jonathan Ltipalei Lodompui, Mary Amuyunzu, Amb. John Kakonge, and Samuel Njuguna Kimani at a time when the university is navigating a series of leadership challenges.

Further appointments include Mercy Ringa Njagi to the Moi University Council, while Kenyatta University will see new members including Joash Mokamba Keraita, Retired Major General Bashir Yusuf, Alice Waruguru Muita, and Isaac Opuya Litali.

At the University of Eldoret, Peter Onchari Kereri was reappointed, while Evelyne Timpiyan Legis and Razoah Vitisia were added as new members of the council.

In addition to university councils, Cyrus Gituai has been reappointed as the Chairperson of the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS), reinforcing continuity in student placement oversight.

Other universities that have seen fresh appointments include Laikipia, Karatina, Garissa, Egerton, Kisii, Rongo, the Technical University of Kenya, South Eastern Kenya University, Taita Taveta University, and Murang’a University.

Various university colleges such as Bomet University College, Mama Ngina University College, and Nyandarua University College were also affected in the reshuffle.

These changes are expected to inject new energy and oversight into institutions of higher learning, supporting the Ministry’s mission to drive reform and ensure quality education delivery across Kenya.