Azimio Warns Kenya Kwanza Govt Against Privatising Public Universities
Opiyo Wandayi, the leader of the Minority in the National Assembly, has expressed his concerns about the government’s plans to privatize public universities.
In a statement to the press, Wandayi argued that privatizing public universities is not the ideal solution to the financial constraints that these institutions are currently facing.
He explained that this proposal would lead to a decline in the quality of education offered, and that government funds are often channeled to other institutions owned by political leaders, leaving public universities in debt.
Wandayi stated that privatizing universities would prioritize money over the quality of education and research.
He also argued that privatizing universities would give individuals the power to remove the accountability measures that are in place, leading to the prioritization of profitability.
“Privatization has a real danger of removing the academic checks and balances that protect university standards,” Wandayi said.
“It will transform these institutions into corporations whose primary responsibility is to their shareholders who will focus on driving down costs and maximizing profits.”
The minority leader also challenged Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu to look out for policy changes initiated by Trade Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria, arguing that Kuria did not have the authority to make changes in the education docket.
On Tuesday, January 24, Kuria announced plans by the government to kickstart the privatization of universities in order to clear the debt accumulated by these institutions in billions.
Kuria welcomed international investors to partner with the government and affirmed that he was waiting for approval from Machogu.
Egerton University, which was among the hardest hit universities, removed five courses from its list of academic programs on Thursday, January 18, in order to stay afloat.
The financial struggles faced by public universities highlight the urgent need for a solution to be found, but it is clear that privatizing these institutions is not the answer.
Instead, the government should explore other options that prioritize the quality of education and research.
Azimio Warns Kenya Kwanza Govt Against Privatising Public Universities