By KURIAN MUSA
A high-level meeting on the monitoring and evaluation of teaching and learning environments in public universities took place on April 29, 2025, at FEDCOS Theatre II, Egerton University. The forum was led by officials from the Ministry of Education and brought together a wide range of university faculty and administrative leaders.
The Ministry delegation included Bonface Gitahi (Principal Research Officer), Caroline Owade (Assistant Director, Research), Dr. Roselida (Director, Research), and Nelly Muchori (Human Resource Management and Development). They engaged stakeholders in assessing current conditions and identifying actionable recommendations.
Egerton University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Isaac Kibwage, officially opened the meeting, urging faculty to share openly and constructively. “Your insights are essential in shaping a more dynamic and effective academic environment,” he said.
Deputy Vice Chancellor Academics, Research and Extension, Prof. Bernard Aduda, appreciated the vibrant contributions from participants and commended them for their openness and commitment to academic improvement.
The evaluation focused on infrastructure, digital learning resources, student engagement, and faculty welfare. Among the key issues raised was the insufficient funding from the Exchequer, which has led to severe challenges in maintaining infrastructure such as lecture halls, theatres, hostels, and critical utilities. Participants highlighted that aging facilities and limited operational budgets continue to undermine the quality of education.
Over 100 participants—including Deans of Faculties, Directors of Undergraduate and Postgraduate Studies, Chairs of Departments, the Chief Finance Officer, Registrar Academics, Director of Marketing and Resource Mobilization, and Head of Medical Services—shared insights and proposed practical reforms to enhance the teaching and learning environment.
This engagement is part of a broader Ministry initiative to ensure that public universities offer conducive environments aligned with Kenya’s higher education development goals. The findings from the session will inform future policy direction and institutional reforms.
