Mount Kenya University (MKU) Pro-Chancellor Dr. Vincent Gaitho has urged politicians to stop injecting politics into the education sector, warning that constant interference could harm learners and jeopardise the country’s future.
Speaking in Nairobi on emerging developments and challenges facing education, Dr Gaitho said the sector needs stability, professionalism and sober leadership, not political noise.
“The education sector has no vacuum; it has its owners. These include teachers, education officials, pupils, students, parents, private sector investors and government officials. Politicians should speak less,” Dr. Gaitho said.
Dr. Gaitho, who also serves as Chairman of the MKU University Council and Chair of the Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) education board, noted that previous generations were able to study in different parts of the country without the issue being politicised.
He stressed that education thrives best in a calm and supportive environment and should not be turned into a battleground for political contestation.
“Education thrives in a cool and quiet environment, not in a noisy atmosphere. Politicians are now interfering,” he said.
He maintained that education must remain a unifying force and that learners should be free to access opportunities anywhere in Kenya. Citing MKU’s nationwide presence, Dr. Gaitho said learning should not be restricted by region, but encouraged counties to strengthen their local schools to attract more learners.
“Education is an equaliser and a unifier. Kids should be allowed to learn anywhere. However, counties should invest more in their local schools, support development of adequate infrastructure so that every part of Kenya becomes a magnet for those who seek education opportunities,” he said.
The professor also raised concern over the financial challenges facing many families, noting that some learners are struggling to transition to senior school because parents cannot afford uniforms, learning materials and other basic requirements, on top of fees charged in senior schools.
He blamed delays in the release of government capitation funds for worsening the situation in schools.
“We need to change our ways. The government has been too slow in releasing capitation funds. The little money schools have received has gone to pay old debts. The State is unable to pay for education in full,” he said.
He praised Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro for using NG-CDF funds to boost education in his constituency, urging other MPs to take a similar approach.
“He has set the pace for MPs by investing NG-CDF funds in schools in his constituency. He should be emulated,” he added.
Dr. Gaitho further welcomed the shift to the Competency-Based Education (CBE) system, describing it as a timely move from the old 8-4-4 model, with greater emphasis on practical skills, values and real-world learning.
“CBE is creating pathways such as sciences and technology, arts and sports,” he noted.
He said education reforms must aim at producing globally competitive graduates while also ensuring the economy grows enough to absorb young people into meaningful employment.
“CBE should aim to train global civil servants. We must grow the economy too to create jobs for the youth. Industry and academia should cooperate, work together so that learners can meet the expectations of industry,” he said.
Dr. Gaitho also called for dialogue between the government and local publishers over pending textbook supply bills, warning that unresolved disputes could disrupt learning. He insisted that corruption must be dealt with firmly and leaders should prioritise solutions over political grandstanding.
“They should talk. Funding is key. Corruption should be dealt with ruthlessly. Enhance dialogue and avoid chest thumping and invest in this crucial education sector,” he said.
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