Parliamentary Committee Calls for Gender Equality in Educational Institutions

Parliamentary Committee Calls for Gender Equality in Educational Institutions

𝐓𝐡𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐡 𝟐𝟕,𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 

The Public Investments Committee (PIC) on Governance and Education, chaired by Hon. Jack Wanami Wamboka, has raised concerns over the persistent gender imbalance in both public and private educational institutions. 

The committee has highlighted the urgent need for gender equality in employment within these institutions of Higher learning, particularly in Senior leadership roles.

The lawmakers noted with concern that despite efforts to promote gender inclusivity, public universities and colleges still exhibit significant lack of gender balance in their workforce. 

Members also observed that leadership positions, especially in higher education institutions, remain overwhelmingly male-dominated, limiting diversity and equal representation.

"This is not just a matter of fairness but one of national development," stated Hon. Wamboka. 

"Diversity in leadership fosters innovation, improves decision-making, and reflects the inclusive values we strive to uphold as a country." He added. 

Taking the debate a notch higher, MPs Hon. Mumina Bonaya and Hon. Rebbeca Tonkei issued a strong call for immediate intervention. They specifically pointed out that top-tier positions in many institutions remain dominated by men, a trend that undermines efforts toward achieving true gender equality.

"It is unacceptable that in this day and age, women continue to be sidelined from leadership roles in education, yet they make up a significant portion of the workforce," 

"We must implement strict policies to ensure fair representation of both genders in recruitment and promotions." said Hon Bonaya.

Hon. Tonkei echoed these sentiments, stressing that a gender-inclusive workforce is essential for sustainable progress. 

"As a committee we must take a stance and ensure we enforce the two third gender rule especially in our public schools.It is sad that most of the schools appearing before this committee are pre- dominantly male in all senior positions." Said Hon Tonkei.

"There is need to strengthen affirmative action policies, and ensure that institutions are held accountable for their hiring practices," she urged.

Chair Wamboka pledged to have the committee conduct an in-depth review of gender representation in institutions of Higher learning and recommend concrete policy measures to address the imbalance.

The committee also plans to work closely with the Ministry of Education and other relevant stakeholders to ensure policies are not only created but also effectively implemented.

The committee's call for gender equality in leadership is expected to set the stage for major reforms in Kenya’s education sector, pushing institutions to embrace inclusivity and equity in their employment practices.

Institutions that appeared before the committee include Eldoret University Eldoret Polytechnic, Machakos University Wote Technical Training Institute, Michuki Technical Training Institute, Nyeri National Polytechnic, Mathenge Technical Training Institute and Masai Mara University