The Public Service Commission (PSC) has advertised for the position of University of Nairobi vice-chancellor to replace ousted Prof Stephen Kiama at the helm of the top institution.
Also advertised was deputy vice-chancellor (academic affairs) role at the same institution, and one vacancy for deputy vice-chancellor (administration and finance) at Kenyatta University, which has been re-advertised.
There is one vacancy for deputy vice-chancellor (administration, finance, planning, and development) at Tharaka University, also re-advertised.
These announcements are part of the PSC’s ongoing recruitment efforts to fill critical leadership roles in Kenyan universities.
In a notice dated, January, 21, 2025 the PSC stated that the recruitment initiatives are in line with the government's broader goal of reforming and modernising the public service sector.
This move is part of a strategic effort to enhance efficiency, promote transparency, and ensure that the workforce is equipped with the skills needed to meet evolving challenges.
“Pursuant to the provisions of section 35(a) (v) of the Universities Act 2012 amended through statute law (Miscellaneous Amendment) Act No.18 of 2018, the Public Service Commission invites applications from suitably qualified persons for the vacant positions,” read the notice.
The University of Nairobi has been dealing with a leadership crisis, with 24 key management positions, including Vice-Chancellor (VC), Deputy Vice-Chancellors (DVCs), and directors of critical departments such as finance and human resources, held in an acting capacity.
In April 2024, the University of Nairobi (UoN) Council placed former Vice-Chancellor Stephen Kiama on compulsory leave as part of his exit process.
Despite being issued a 60-day leave, Prof Kiama failed to comply, leading to a three-month suspension imposed by the council.
On August 5, 2024, under the leadership of Prof Amukowa Anangwe, the council appointed Prof Margret Hutchinson as the acting vice-chancellor.
Prof Kiama's tenure was officially terminated on September 27, 2024.
A letter from Prof Anangwe, dated October 14, 2024, confirmed that Prof Kiama had exited the university.
"The University of Nairobi Council wishes to inform the community that Prof Stephen Gitahi Kiama’s services as an employee were terminated effective September 27, 2024. The reasons for this decision were communicated to him directly," the letter from the council stated.
Prof Anangwe told Nation.Africa that the situation at the university was “historical,” attributing it to structural changes initiated by the previous council.
These changes involved abolishing certain positions, creating new ones, and leaving many roles substantively unfilled, he said.
“When we assumed office in May 2023, we found this scenario in place, with some individuals acting in these roles for more than two years, far exceeding the six-month limit allowed by law,” said Prof Anangwe.
Prof Anangwe said some have clung to these roles for over two years, defying the six-month legal limit, while the university’s leadership structure crumbles under the weight of indecision and court battles.
“In December last year, the University Council resolved to advertise for 24 positions, many of them arising out of previously acting appointments. Some acted for more than even 23 months, which the law allows people to act for only six months,” he said.
Prof Anangwe further revealed that efforts to resolve the impasse have been hindered by legal battles, with court injunctions stalling the competitive recruitment process initiated by the council in December 2023.
“We advertised for 24 positions, but the process was stopped by court action, instigated by individuals in acting roles fearing they would lose out to more qualified candidates,” Prof Anangwe explained.
