Acting Kenyatta University (KU) Vice Chancellor Professor Waceke Wanjohi found herself in a challenging position during a session with lawmakers. The Cohesion and Equal Opportunities Committee, led by Mandera West MP Adan Haji, questioned the university’s decision to hire foreign workers when Kenyans with similar skills could fill the roles. The inquiry emerged after KU submitted a report revealing that it had employed foreign nationals, including individuals from Cameroon, Egypt, and Germany.
Concerns Over Foreign Hires
MP Adan Haji criticized the university’s hiring practices, stating, “What is the reason for employing foreigners? The law only allows employment of foreigners with special skills that Kenyans do not have.” This sentiment was echoed by Nominated MP Irene Mayaka, who questioned the university’s priorities in hiring foreign nationals over local talent.
In response, Professor Wanjohi explained that most foreigners were hired as lecturers and foreign language instructors, aiming to enhance curriculum development at the institution. This explanation, however, did not satisfy the lawmakers, who argued that such roles could be filled by qualified Kenyans.
Issues of Compliance with Retirement and Disability Employment Laws
The session also shed light on Kenyatta University’s compliance with laws concerning the employment of individuals with disabilities and the mandatory retirement age. Professor Wanjohi acknowledged that some university employees were over the age of 70, a violation of the law that sets the retirement age for public servants and teachers at 60, with a provision for disabled individuals to work until 65. “KU had workers on its payroll who were 76 years old, though she pointed out that these were lecturers,” Wanjohi stated.
The committee’s concerns extended to the employment of individuals with disabilities. Professor Wanjohi’s claim that only 78 disabled workers were employed at KU campuses and that jobs did not attract more applicants with disabilities was met with skepticism. Onesmus Ngogoyo, MP for Kajiado North, contested this, saying, “It is not true that jobs at the university do not attract people with disabilities. The management should have a policy that guides the university in their employment.”
MP Ong’ondo Were of Kasipul acknowledged KU’s efforts in establishing a directorate for people with disabilities but pointed out its ineffectiveness in ensuring adequate employment opportunities for the disabled. This sentiment highlights the broader issue of workplace inclusivity and the need for robust policies to support it.
Ethnic Balance and Representation
The lawmakers also raised concerns about the lack of ethnic balance among the university’s staff, with claims that a single community held the majority of positions. This lack of diversity goes against the spirit of inclusivity and equal opportunity that public institutions are expected to uphold.
Moving Forward
The criticisms directed at Kenyatta University highlight significant challenges in its hiring practices and adherence to labor laws. The university’s leadership faces the task of re-evaluating its policies to ensure compliance with national regulations and foster a more inclusive and diverse workforce.
The lawmakers’ scrutiny underscores the importance of transparent and equitable hiring practices in public institutions, ensuring that opportunities are accessible to all segments of the population. As the university addresses these concerns, it will be crucial for its administration to implement strategies that align with the legal and ethical standards expected of a leading educational institution in Kenya.
