Thursday, 17 April, 2025
PIC- Education advocates for robust policies for institutions of higher learning to generate their own revenue for sustainability ππππ’π¨π§ππ₯ ππ¬π¬ππ¦ππ₯π²ππππ§ππ¬πππ², ππ©π«π’π₯ ππ,ππππ
The Public Investments Committee on Governance and Education chaired by Bumula MP Hon. Jack Wanami Wamboka has observed a need to have policies surrounding institutions generating their own income for sustainability.
Recognizing the vital role Universities and TVETS play in society in providing education to our youths. The Lawmakers today noted that financial sustainability continues to be a significant concern in the running of our institutions of Higher Learning.
Lack of and delayed government funding stands as one of the primary challenges universities face today. As the government grapples with the economy and public financing continues to decrease or remains stagnant, members say, Universities must find alternative sources of income to sustain their operations.
Chairman Hon. Wamboka observed with concern the overdependence on a single source of income, such as tuition fees that leaves universities and Tvets vulnerable to financial instability.
"If there is a decline in student enrollment or a sudden disruption in revenue, universities are left in limbo and always need help from the government to cover their operational costs."
Diversifying income sources especially with institutions that have large tracks of land that can be put to use becomes crucial for ensuring financial sustainability." Wamboka
Members echoing the chair's statements adding that Policies the committee will come up with surrounding institutions generating their own income for sustainability will typically involve establishing clear frameworks for identifying and managing income-generating units (IGUs), ensuring good governance, and promoting responsible resource mobilization.
Adding that the policies will aim at enabling institutions to diversify their revenue streams and become financially independent, thereby supporting their long-term viability
"Institutions should encourage collaboration and partnerships with other organizations, both within and outside the institution, to leverage resources and expertise. " Hon. Bisau
"Our Universities and Tvets can create their own income-generating units, such as consulting services, research and development, or commercial ventures such as farming and animal rearing. " Hon. Nzambia
"They can invest in infrastructure that can generate revenue, such as hotels, apartments, or commercial spaces. " Hon. Karitho
By implementing robust policies for income generation and sustainability, members agreed that institutions can ensure their long-term viability and ability to meet their mission of serving the community and advancing knowledge.
It is imperative for universities to proactively manage their financial resources, diversify income streams, and embrace data-driven decision-making to ensure long-term sustainability.
Principals and VCs were also cautioned over advertising works and services that the government can provide, including valuations and public works.
The institutions that appeared before the committee included:-
1. Moi University
2. β RIVATEX East Africa Ltd
3. Technical University of Kenya
4. Kiambu Institute of Science and Technology
5. Kitale National Polytechnic
6. β Bungoma National Polytechnic
7. Shamberere National Polytechnic
8. β University of Nairobi Entreprises & Services Ltd (UNES)