Funding Shortfall at The Technical University of Kenya.
The Technical University of Kenya (TUK) has recently expressed concerns over the reduced government capitation for July 2024. In a statement, Deputy Registrar Stephen Karanja highlighted the significant impact this reduction has had on the university’s finances, particularly its ability to meet salary obligations. Consequently, staff members below Grade Five will receive their full salaries, while those above this grade will only receive 65% of their wages. Karanja assured that the remaining balance would be disbursed as soon as additional funds become available.
This funding issue at TUK is not an isolated incident but part of a broader financial crisis plaguing Kenyan universities. A report released in May 2024 revealed that TUK is grappling with a staggering debt of over Ksh10 billion. This report, presented to Parliament, highlighted that TUK is one of 23 out of 40 universities in the country facing severe financial instability due to enormous debts. Collectively, these institutions have accumulated a record debt of Ksh76 billion.
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The University of Nairobi owes Ksh18 billion, Kenyatta University carries a debt of Ksh9.538 billion, and Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) faces Ksh8.857 billion in debt. The financial strain has caused defaults on pension payments, gratuities, insurance premiums, and unpaid bills to suppliers. Additionally, delays have occurred in remitting employee deductions and paying part-time lecturers.
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Experts have raised alarms over the dire consequences if this financial crisis remains unaddressed. The potential risk of university closures looms large, threatening the future of higher education in Kenya. As a result, the ongoing financial challenges highlight the urgent need for comprehensive reforms in the funding and management of universities across the country.
Funding Shortfall at The Technical University of Kenya.
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