Professor Karega Mutahi, the former Education Principal Secretary (PS) and scholar, left an indelible mark on Kenya’s education sector and public service, renowned for his pragmatism, resilience, and dedication to transforming institutions. Mutahi’s career spans several ministries and pivotal roles, yet his journey was anything but conventional. From his early struggles to his eventual role in government, he inspired many with his unyielding commitment to education and leadership.
A Humble Beginning
Born into a modest family, Mutahi’s early life was marked by hardship. Despite the challenges, he persevered and laid the foundation of his academic journey without the advantage of secondary school education, an unusual path for someone who would later rise to such prominence. He completed his primary education in 1963, where he performed well in English and Mathematics. However, due to limited resources, he couldn’t proceed to secondary school.
Rather than abandoning his dreams, Mutahi took an unconventional approach. He became an untrained teacher at Kiru Primary School in Murang’a and later joined Kigari Teachers Training College, which provided basic teaching skills to class-eight graduates. Here, he achieved his Kenya English Test and Kenya Junior Secondary Examination (KJSE), allowing him to advance academically.
Self-Made Academic Journey
Teaching in Thika, Mutahi continued his education by preparing for the KJSE and subsequently sitting for the O-level and A-level examinations independently. His resilience and passion for learning saw him excel, eventually gaining admission to the University of Nairobi in 1973 through a mature age entrance examination. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics, later advancing to a Master’s at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), and finally a Doctorate from the University of Nairobi, establishing himself as a respected scholar in linguistics.
Mutahi’s journey reflects his tenacity and commitment to education. Despite an initial lack of formal secondary schooling, he used his role as a teacher to foster his academic progression, proving that perseverance and dedication can indeed bridge gaps that may seem insurmountable.
Contribution to Kenya’s Education Sector
During President Mwai Kibaki’s administration, Mutahi was appointed as Education PS, a position he held with dedication, steering policies that redefined Kenya’s educational landscape. Known for his pragmatic approach, Mutahi supported vice-chancellors and educational leaders, facilitating resources and policies to improve performance in public universities. Former Kenyatta University Vice-Chancellor Olive Mugenda spoke highly of Mutahi’s contributions, describing him as a “pragmatic leader who got work done.” His input was instrumental in supporting university leaders, enhancing the overall education sector’s performance.
One of his significant contributions was his involvement in the establishment of the Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital (KUTRRH). When the hospital was nearing completion, Mutahi agreed to serve as a consultant in the operationalization committee, providing invaluable insights and recommendations in what would later be known as the “Karega Report.” Mugenda credits this report as the foundation upon which the hospital’s operations were established, allowing it to flourish as a healthcare and research institution.
Beyond Education: A Public Service Legacy
Mutahi’s influence extended beyond education. Throughout his career, he served in multiple ministries, including Agriculture, Livestock Development and Marketing, the Office of the Vice President, and Planning and National Development. His ability to adapt and excel in various capacities showcased his versatility and commitment to public service. Mutahi’s appointment as the Chairman of the Intergovernmental Relations Technical Committee (IGTRC) further underscored his legacy in fostering collaboration between Kenya’s national and county governments. This committee was essential in establishing a framework for consultation and cooperation, crucial for the functioning of Kenya’s devolved governance system.
Remembered as a Transformative Leader
Those who worked with Mutahi remember him as a hands-on leader who didn’t shy away from challenges. His background as an academic and his field expertise made him an invaluable asset in government circles. His peers recognized him for his capacity to simplify complex issues, making practical recommendations that could be implemented effectively. He had a profound impact on Kenya’s governance and educational structures, reflected in both his policy reforms and his influential consultations with various institutions.
One of the highlights of his legacy was his dedication to supporting colleagues and leaders in Kenya’s education sector. Mugenda’s reflections on Mutahi’s mentorship during her tenure as Vice-Chancellor speak volumes about his impact on higher education in Kenya. His ability to bridge academia and governance allowed him to drive initiatives that facilitated the growth of institutions, enhancing their administrative and operational frameworks.
Accolades and Recognitions
Mutahi’s contributions were acknowledged through numerous awards and honors. He was a recipient of the prestigious Order of the Chief of the Burning Spear, an award given to distinguished public servants in Kenya. In addition to his public service achievements, he was a prolific academic with 19 publications to his name, demonstrating his ongoing dedication to knowledge-sharing and intellectual development.
His achievements in academia were not limited to Kenya; his education from institutions like UCLA and the University of Nairobi highlighted his intellectual prowess. His publications covered diverse topics in linguistics, making him a prominent figure in Kenya’s academic circles. His scholarly contributions, combined with his public service roles, underscored his commitment to bettering his country through both knowledge and action.
A Legacy for Future Generations
Professor Mutahi’s life story is a testament to the power of resilience and lifelong learning. From his humble beginnings to his ascension to prominent roles in government, Mutahi’s journey serves as an inspiration to those who face educational and economic challenges. His unique path, bypassing secondary education but later achieving advanced academic qualifications, demonstrates the importance of self-belief and determination.
His impact on the Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital, in particular, will be remembered as a crowning achievement. By helping to lay the groundwork for its operationalization, he left a lasting mark on Kenya’s healthcare and education sectors. Mugenda, reflecting on his contributions, emphasized that the story of KUTRRH’s development would be incomplete without acknowledging Mutahi’s role. His “Karega Report” remains a guiding document, testament to his forward-thinking approach and commitment to sustainable institutional growth.
Closing Reflections
Professor Karega Mutahi’s passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy continues to inspire. His life exemplified what it means to serve with purpose, integrity, and resilience. His ability to rise above circumstances, advocate for quality education, and support institutional growth has left an indelible mark on Kenya’s public sector. Future generations of scholars, educators, and public servants will undoubtedly look to his life as an example of dedication and visionary leadership.
In remembering Professor Mutahi, we celebrate a man whose life journey defied the odds, breaking barriers in pursuit of knowledge and national progress. His story reminds us that challenges are but stepping stones to greater achievements and that true leadership lies in the ability to empower others and transform institutions for the betterment of society.
