Jaramogi varsity Vice Chancellor dismisses nepotism allegations

Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology Vice Chancellor Prof Stephen Agong'. PHOTO/ISAIAH GWENGI.

KISUMU: Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology Vice Chancellor Stephen Agong' has dismissed claims of nepotism and religious discrimination in staff hiring.

Kenya Universities Staff Union Secretary General (Bondo Chapter), Mathews Oduol, had accused Prof Agong' of only hiring staff from his region.

However, speaking to the Press at his office on Wednesday, the VC said he would not bow down to the union's interests over his commitment to build a strong university based on merit and hard work.

"We cannot underrate the importance of this institution by allowing some individuals, who do not want change, to mislead the public," he said.

Agong' said more than 60 per cent of staff at the university come from Siaya County contrary to claims that locals have been sidelined in job opportunities.

He said the university as a publicly funded institution is expected to have a national face.

The VC also said the list of employees at the institution is open for inspection, and that the election of deans will be conducted before end of the year.