University of Nairobi Council Finally Accepts To work With Kiama
The University of Nairobi (UON) Council has made a significant and unexpected gesture by extending an olive branch to Vice Chancellor (VC) Stephen Kiama, indicating a possible reconciliation following weeks of tension.
In a surprising turn of events, the council has expressed its willingness to collaborate with the VC, just two weeks after protests against his return from leave.
In a communique dated October 3 and issued by Council chairman Amukoa Anangwe, it is emphasized that the Council and Vice Chancellor, Prof. Stephen Kiama, will continue to work together in accordance with the law and the university’s Charter.
The council’s declaration underscores its commitment to maintaining UON’s position as a center of excellence in academics and research, highlighting the importance of Kiama’s commitment and support in achieving this goal.
This development follows the council’s previous decision to bar Kiama from performing the duties of Vice Chancellor as of September 25, putting his six-month sabbatical on hold after only three weeks. At that time, the council deemed Kiama’s return from the sabbatical as “unprocedural, untenable, and not acceptable.”
The controversy began in July when Kiama requested a six-month sabbatical amid a dispute with the council, and this request was initially approved. However, in a subsequent letter, Kiama expressed his intention to return to work on August 31, citing the resolution of the issues that led to his leave request, including personal health-related matters.
Despite Kiama’s letter, the council had not responded by the time of his return. Kiama, in an interview upon his return, asserted that he did not require permission to return to work, citing his five-year contract.
Also Read:Â Prof. Kiama Forced to Go On Leave by University Council
The situation further complicated on September 2 when the council abruptly canceled a meeting scheduled to discuss Kiama’s return, despite a prior notice and permission from Education CS Ezekiel Machogu.
This recent olive branch from the council suggests a potential shift towards resolving the underlying issues and restoring stability at the University of Nairobi.
University of Nairobi Council Finally Accepts To work With Kiama
