Kenya bans ethnic associations in universities

Ethnic groups in universities now banned

NAIROBI: The Government has banned all forms of ethnic associations in universities and colleges as a measure to counter radicalisation.

The directive by President Uhuru Kenyatta and the National Cohesion and Integration Commission seeks to foster “non-biased” unity among students.

Speaking during the orientation of freshmen at Maseno University yesterday, Vice Chancellor Prof Julius Nyabundi made public the directive given during a Tuesday meeting of university heads, the NCIC and the President.

“We met the President and the NCIC on Tuesday and I would like to report that all forms of clan, tribal, religious and all 2other groupings that lack a national face have been banned in universities,” Nyabundi said.

“It may seem harsh, but we are trying to unite the country as part of efforts to fight acts of terrorism and foster peace ahead of the General Election.”

Prof Nyabundi said institutions of higher learning have become a soft target for terrorists because there are many influences outside campuses. Students are influenced by the Internet, social media and external groups outside campus. 

“We urge you to be on the lookout for changes in behaviour, character or personalities of your colleagues and share them with us so that we can investigate and offer counsel where necessary,” he said.