Kenya to adopt Open University system

By Augustine Oduor

About 20,000 students who attained the minimum university entry points but missed university admission now have a reason to smile after the Government announced plans to establish an ‘Open University’ system.

The Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology said plans are at an ‘advanced stage’, and added they have already negotiated with Multimedia University to absorb some of the students.

"We are also in talks with all other universities so that we can use their facilities under this programme," sad Dr Nyangeta Areba, senior deputy Director of Education in the ministry.

Speaking on behalf of Minister Hellen Sambili during the launch of 13th Nairobi International Education Fair, Areba said a meeting slated for next Monday would finalise the report on implementation of the project.

He said the ministry is doing something to ensure students who are not taken up with the Joint Admission Board are absorbed.

The Standard Group, Excel Communications Limited (ECL), the Ministry of Education and the Sarit Centre Management sponsored this year’s event.

Mr Sarvjeet Channa, the Standard Group Chief Operating Officer, said the exhibition provides an opportunity to thousands of students to make career choices that will shape their future.

"Various stakeholders will from today (Thursday) showcase what they offer in both secondary and tertiary education institutions. This will help students to identify career options available to them," he said.

He said Standard Group had supported the exhibition this year because it recognises education as a critical tool to the society.

"It is alarming the number of students who fail to join universities. The Government should also promote e-learning to increase access to education by the students," he said.

Sammy Masara, ECL managing director said there are about 172 certificate courses, 233 ordinary diploma courses and 34 advanced diploma courses offered by various colleges in the country, but students are not aware.

"The three-day event will give these students an opportunity to sample various areas that they wish to pursue for career advancement," he said.

About 65 institutions from 17 countries are exhibiting this year under the theme ‘Accessing Global Career and Training Opportunities’.