This archive report was first published on 26 July 2021.
Private Universities in Kenya: Challenges and Opportunities ¶
Published on July 26, 2021, in the Sunday Nation, Simon Gicharu, chairman of the National Association of Private Universities in Kenya (NAPUK), addressed concerns about the affordability and accessibility of private universities in Kenya.
According to Gicharu, the perception that private universities are expensive and only for the rich is a misconception. He stated that many poor students have been hosted by private universities, and there is no significant difference in terms of cost.
Recent changes to the KCSE examination have led to fewer students qualifying for direct entry to universities, making it challenging for private universities to compete with public ones for government-sponsored students. Gicharu emphasized that private universities have invested heavily in quality and market-driven courses to attract learners.
Private universities have been accused of concentrating on programs leading to white-collar jobs, but Gicharu argued that this is not the case. He stated that many private universities have invested in medicine, engineering, architecture, and agriculture, among other fields.
When asked about the contribution of private universities to research, Gicharu replied that universities exist to teach, research, and offer community service. He emphasized that many private universities have established their own niches in the scholarly world and offer a rich variety of courses.
Regarding the need for private universities in Kenya, Gicharu stated that they are essential for expanding access to higher education. He emphasized that as more Kenyans qualify for higher education, private universities will play a crucial role in providing opportunities.
When asked about balancing quality education and profits for owners, Gicharu clarified that private universities are non-profit making entities run by boards of trustees.
Looking ahead, Gicharu expressed optimism about the future of private university education in Kenya. He emphasized that the world over, some of the most prestigious universities are private, and with innovation and a focus on quality, the future can only be brighter.
