| dc.identifier.citation | Mwiria, K., Ng’ethe, N., Ngome, C., Odero, V. W., Wesonga, D., & Tum, J. (2007). Public and Private Universities in Kenya. The Assessment, Learning and Teaching Journal Number 3: Winter 2008, 58. | en_US |
| dc.description.abstract | This book gives an interesting insight into the politics that face HE in Kenya, the history of
public universities and the growth of private universities – many of which are only for the
wealthy. The government wants to ensure equal opportunities for everyone and, just like HE in
the UK, wants to widen access.
Throughout the book there are examples of mismanagement caused by political pressure and
unco-ordinated planning. Staff to student ratios in the public universities are astoundingly low:
as little as 1:12 owing to many courses with low numbers. The book describes how public
universities are changing from being viewed with suspicion to being viewed more positively, yet
also tells of mismanagement and a much needed staff development programme.
Private university research is based on four case studies. There are ongoing debates as to
whether tuition fees are affordable for the average Kenyan. The private universities show that
they are financially liquid and have sound management strengths.
A beauty of the book lies in its cover, featuring 12 different black Kenyan faces. They illustrate
the struggles discussed in the book: access, inequality and limitation of choice – but does this
image really capture the spirit of widening participation and an inclusive approach to a very
diverse population? | en_US |
