MoE Announces Large-Scale Recruitment for Public University Councils: Eligibility and Requirements
The Ministry of Education (MoE) has launched a large-scale recruitment drive to fill leadership positions in public universities and constituent colleges. This initiative aims to resolve governance disputes and strengthen leadership structures in higher education institutions across Kenya.
New Leadership Appointments in Public Universities
In a notice published in MyGov, Principal Secretary for Higher Education and Research, Beatrice Inyangala, confirmed that the government is seeking to appoint chairpersons and council members for various public universities and colleges.
Currently, Kenya has 37 chartered public universities and six public university constituent colleges. According to the Universities Act No. 42 of 2012, each university’s governance is overseen by a University Council, which consists of nine members, including:
✅ A Chairperson (appointed by the Cabinet Secretary for Education)
✅ Five members (selected through an open process)
✅ Vice-Chancellor (ex-officio member & secretary)
✅ Higher Education Principal Secretary (ex-officio member)
This recruitment drive comes amid leadership disputes at institutions like the University of Nairobi, where Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba recently dismissed Chairperson Amukowa Anangwe following pressure from the University Academic Staff Union (UASU).
Qualifications & Eligibility for University Council Positions
The government has outlined strict eligibility criteria for those applying for these leadership roles:
📌 Chairperson Position:
- Minimum qualification: PhD from a recognized university
- Strong leadership and management experience
- Must meet Chapter Six integrity requirements of the Constitution
📌 Council Member Positions:
- Minimum qualification: Master’s degree (excluding executive master’s programs)
- Proven leadership and management experience
- Must meet Chapter Six integrity standards
- Cannot be a public servant or an active faculty member in any university
How to Apply for MoE University Council Positions
Interested candidates must submit:
✅ Application letter specifying the position
✅ Updated CV
✅ Copy of National ID or valid Passport
Deadline: Applications must be submitted to the Ministry of Education by March 4.
Documents Required for Shortlisted Candidates
Shortlisted applicants must present the following during the interview:
📌 Identity Card & academic certificates
📌 CUE Recognition/Equation Certificate (for foreign qualifications)
📌 Certificate of Good Conduct
📌 EACC Clearance Certificate
📌 HELB Clearance Certificate
📌 KRA Compliance Certificate
📌 Credit Bureau Clearance
Successful candidates will take up their roles after meeting all legal and professional requirements.
This recruitment marks a major transformation in university governance, ensuring competent and transparent leadership for Kenya’s public universities.
