PROF. SOME APPOINTED AS In this Issue … NEWS.pdf · [email protected] [email protected] PROF. SOME APPOINTED AS COMMISSION CHIEF EXECUTIVE Prof. David Kimutai Some officially assumed

A newsletter of the Commission for Higher Education November 2012 – February 2013 | 1

CHE NEWS

A newsletter of the Commission for Higher Education November 2012 – February 2013

In this IssueProf. Some appointed .................Page 1Editorial .........................................Page 2New Vice-Chair ...........................Page 3Ranking Workshop ......................page 5 Public lecture................................Page 6Housing Finance ..........................Page 6Trade Fair participation .............Page 7Pictorial .........................................Page 10Staff news ......................................Page 12SACCO News .............................Page 12Appointments ..............................Page 13Bereavement.................................Page 14

Editorial Advisors Prof. David K. Some

Prof. Florence K. LengaMr. Joel Mberia

Chief Editor Mrs. Elizabeth Wafula

Editorial CommitteeMrs. Eliza Mbatia

Mrs. Teresa MuthuiMr. Calvine Paul Oredi

Mr. John Mutethia

PhotographyPR Office

CHE News is a quarterly publication of the Commission for Higher Education

(CHE). We encourage brief comments or articles on topical issues related to

higher education. Send in your articles to:

The Public Relations Office, P.O. Box 54999- 00200 Nairobi.

Tel: 7205000, 2021150 Ext 223/233,

Email: [email protected] or [email protected]

[email protected]

PROF. SOME APPOINTED AS COMMISSION CHIEF EXECUTIVE

Prof. David Kimutai Some officially assumed office as the new Commission Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of the Commission for Higher Education. Prof. Some has

served in several capacities within the university sector, notable among them as a Vice-Chancellor of Moi University.

His most recent appointment was as Chairman of the Task Force on Re-alignment of University Education with the New Constitution, 2011.

Prof. Some received the instruments of authority and operations in a colourful ceremony presided over by the Commission Chairman, Prof. Ezra Maritim accompanied by Commission members.

(Continued on pg3)

Former Commission Secretary Prof. Standa (right) hands over instruments of authority to the newly appointed Commission Chief Executive, Prof. David Kimutai Some (in Commission cap) in a ceremony presided over by the Chairman, Prof. Ezra Maritim and the Vice-Chairperson Mrs. Jane Ngige (at back).

ISO 9001:2008 Certified

Assuring Quality Higher Education

2 | A newsletter of the Commission for Higher Education November 2012 – February 2013

Message From Chief Executive

I would like to take this opportunity to reiterate the

important role that the Commission for Higher Education

plays in sustenance of quality in higher education in Kenya.

The Commission has made significant progress in re-inventing

itself in order to meet the expectations of stakeholders and to

expand access to quality university education by Kenyans. The

partnerships and linkages established at national, regional and

international levels has enabled the Commission to mitigate

various challenges in the higher education sector.

The Commission continues to align itself to national priorities

as detailed in Vision 2030 and within the current policy

framework for education and training in Kenya. More focus

is hinged to the on-going reforms in university sub-sector as

articulated in the Sessional Paper No. 1 of 2005 and particularly

the Universities’ Bill which is at an advanced stage. The bill

will give legal mandate to the Commission to inspect, regulate

and safeguard provision of higher education both in public

and private universities in Kenya. This will ensure that quality,

relevance and standards in university education and training in

the country are maintained.

Mechanisms have been put in place to ensure that there is a

harmonized quality assurance system nationally and regionally

through collaboration with regulatory bodies in Uganda,

Tanzania and Burundi. Embracing a harmonized quality assurance

system in the East African region will ensure that there is

comparability of the quality of university education among the

member countries which meets internationally recognized

standards. Affiliation to the International Network of Quality

Assurance Agencies for Higher Education (INQAAHE) and

African Quality Assurance Network (AfriQAN) has enabled

the Commission to embrace best practices in quality assurance

both regionally and internationally.

The CHE Newsletter issue of November 2012 – February 2013

therefore, outlines some of the key activities and events that

have taken place at the Commission. I believe the newsletter

will provide useful reading to enlighten, educate and entertain

not only our members of staff, but the larger higher education

fraternity in the country. We have a duty to ensure that the

quality of university education is maintained in line with the

mandate of the Commission.

Prof. David Kimutai Some

Chief Executive

Prof. David Kimutai SomeChief Executive


New Vice - Chair AppointedHis Excellency the President Hon. Mwai Kibaki appointed

Mrs. Jane Ngige to serve as the Vice-Chairperson of the Commission for Higher Education with effect from 30th July 2012, for a period of five (5) years. Mrs. Ngige was appointed to replace Prof. Judy Mbula Bahemuka who resigned to take up other national duties.

In the letter dated 17th September 2012, Prof. Crispus M. Kiamba, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology said “in accordance with Section 4 (1) of the Universities Act, His Excellency the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces of the Republic of Kenya has appointed you the Vice-Chairperson of Commission for Higher Education.”

Prioritise Quality University Education Higher Education Minister UrgesThe Minister for Higher Education, Science and Technology,

Hon. Prof. Margaret Kamar, has appealed to universities to embrace both institutional and programme quality for them to remain relevant in the knowledge- based global environment.

Prof. Kamar made these remarks during a regional workshop on quality assurance for universities in East Africa held at Utalii Hotel from 18th – 22nd June 2012. The Minister lauded the collaborative efforts made by IUCEA, DAAD, Oldenburg University and the regulatory agencies in the region since 2004, with regards to institutionalization of quality assurance in the partner regional universities.

“Universities should keep their ears to the ground in order to remain focused and relevant to the situational realities of the e-world” she advised. The Minister noted that comprehensive internal quality assurance should be in tandem with the external policies as a gauge for “fitness for purpose”.

Commission Chairman Prof. Ezra Maritim termed the institutions as ‘gatekeepers’ of quality assurance hence directly accountable for the quality of graduates they produce. Prof. Maritim also noted the need for institutions to re-think their mode of delivery while adhering to quality. “Expansion of universities, Vision 2030 and the new constitutional dispensation are some of the milestones in higher education sector the country has made,” the Chairman said.

(Continued from pg 1)Representing the Permanent Secretary, Ministry for Higher Education, Prof. Harry Kaane, urged the Commission to diversify its sources of income as continued over- reliance on the Exchequer would not be expected to assist the Commission to achieve its expanded mandate.

Prof. Maritim urged the Commission to brace itself for the anticipated changes occasioned by envisaged Universities Bill 2012 and the on-going restructuring of the Commission.

The former Chief Executive, Prof. Everett Standa highlighted key areas that Commission had made remarkable progress among them: Increased assess of university education, improved quality education, continued commitment to relevance, introduction of criteria for university ranking, various research initiatives and staff welfare mechanisms.

In his inaugural address, the new CEO, Prof. David Some appreciated the opportunity given to serve as the CEO. Prof. Some outlined the milestones achieved by his predecessor Prof. Standa during his six-year the tenure at the Commission.

Prof. Some said that he would build up on what was already in place to further realize the mandate of the Commission. The newly appointed CEO said he is up to the task and would do his best to see that the Commission promoted quality higher education and was a force to reckon with, not only in Kenya but also in the region.

He advised staff that he had an open door policy but they should at all times observe protocol and chain of command in their duties. He pledged to work closely with all staff regardless of their position “as each one of us has something to offer”.

Prof. Some was invited to join the Comhigh SACCO by the Comhigh Chairman, Mrs. Mary Oyolla who outlined the broad mandate of the SACCO and the benefits to members.

Mrs. Jane NgigeVice-Chairperson, CHE

...‘gatekeepers’ of quality assurance hence directly accountable for the quality of

graduates they produce.


The Government has increased funding to the higher education sector in order to support more needy students,

President Mwai Kibaki has said.Speaking in Kisumu during the award of Charter to Great Lakes University of Kisumu on 16th November 2012, Kibaki said the Government would also fund students studying within the East African Community.President Kibaki said there was need for those who had managed to complete their university education through

funding from the scheme, to repay their loans, so that other needy students could benefit from the scheme to access higher education. He also encouraged the private sector to support government initiatives in recovering loans issued through HELB. The President called on the private sector to demand clearance certificates from HELB as a prerequisite for employment“I am pleased that it is now a requirement that in order to qualify for most public offices, one must secure clearance from

the HELB, he said.The Head of State urged universities to supplement Government efforts to avail higher education by raising funds for bursaries, scholarships and establishing financial schemes to enhance access to tertiary education.He said there was need for universities across the country to support the building of a new country by developing selfless, honest and transformational leaders who have the interests of the nation at heart.The President applauded the newly chartered university for offering undergraduate and post-graduate programmes in Theology, adding that Law, devoid of a firm spiritual foundation of morality and ethics, could not provide a proper basis for a just and equitable nation.“We will be shortly upgrading 13 of the constituent colleges into fully-fledged universities, so as to increase public universities in the country from the present seven to 20” President Kibaki said.He added that some of the new universities would be dedicated to science and technology, to meet the development needs of the country as captured by Vision 2030 and the Constitution.The Minister for Higher Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Margaret Kamar said out of the 400,000 students who sat KCSE in 2011, a total of 114,236 students qualified with the minimum university admission requirement.Prof. Kamar said “out of this number only 41,879 students were admitted to the public universities through Joint Admissions Board (JAB).”“It is disheartening that a total of 76,377 students who attained the mean grade were not absorbed. This is why there is a great need for government to work towards expanding access to meet the growing need for university education.” She urged universities to start 24-hour learning programmes so that those who qualify in higher education are not left out.Public Service Minister, Dalmas Otieno, who represented the Prime Minister Raila Odinga urged universities and faith-based institutions to help rid the country of the ethnicity pandemic. The University Chancellor, Prof. Wasawo said the institution had grown from offering community service training into

a competitive institution and was keen on d e v e l o p i n g courses that would help develop the region.

State boosts funding for higher education, Kibaki says

...in order to qualify for most

public offices, one must secure

clearance from the HELB,...


WORKSHOPS AND SEMINARSStakeholders discuss criteria for ranking and rating universities

University stakeholders should adapt best practices in working out the most feasible criteria for ranking/ rating

their institutions, a workshop held in Nairobi was told.

The stakeholders’ workshop was held at the Kenya School of Monitory Studies on 19th September 2012 organized by the Commission for Higher Education, Ministry of Higher Education Science and Technology and German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) Africa Regional office.

The Minister for Higher Education, Science and Technology, Hon. Prof. Margaret Kamar who officially opened the workshop said that rating of Kenyan universities would not only raise awareness of the rated universities’ status, but also help in developing a rationale for judging training in higher education institutions.

“We need to come up with competitive models in our institutions to build global competiveness by adopting strategies such as bench-marking and ranking”, she said in a speech read on her behalf by her Higher Education Secretary, Prof. Harry Kaane.

Mr. Christoph Hansert, Director DAAD said ranking of was a global phenomenon that enabled institutions to compare how well they were doing with respect to others globally. This, he added was a key driver of international competitiveness.

Input from the stakeholders will be harmonized with the draft criterion prepared before a consensus on operationalization is agreed upon.

Workshop discusses best practices for ranking quality assurance in regional agencies

The Commission organized a one-day workshop on Good Practices in External Quality Assurance Agencies at the Kenya

School of Monetary Studies (KSMS) on 15th May 2012.

The workshop was organized in collaboration with the International Network for Quality Assurance Agencies in Higher Education (INQAAHE) and the African Quality Assurance Network (AfriQAN). The workshop drew delegates from 15 countries.

Participants of the workshop held at Kenya School of Monetary Studies

It provided a forum for participating agencies to objectively rate themselves on good practices in quality assurance using an on site assessment instrument developed by Deputy Commission Secretary (AQA), Prof. Florence K. Lenga in collaboration with Prof. Peter Okebukola the President of GUNI-Africa.

Using this instrument the participants objectively ranked Tanzania Commission for Universities (TCU) with the highest score, National Universities Commission (NUC) Nigeria was ranked second while the Higher Education Relevance and Quality Agency (HERQA) was ranked third. The use of this objectively designed instrument was considered revolutionary.

The 18-member delegation discussed 30 good practices submitted from 16 External Quality Assurance Agencies (EQAA) including the Commission. The results of the workshop will contribute towards the consolidation of good practices for African EQAA.


CHE hosts lecture by German varsity donsuccesses. Practical methods including research models such as ‘Nanoscale’ were demonstrated.

The visiting German varsity don urged her counterparts from Kenyan universities to support and motivate young researchers as a huge potential for the country’s development was vested in them.Inter-university research collaboration was also singled out as a critical propeller of the research agenda. It was noted that there was need for solid linkages to be established between universities, industries and research institutes for research ventures to be sustainable.

The Commission Chief Executive, Prof. David Some who moderated the session presented the findings of the Taskforce for Alignment of University Education with the New Constitutions, 2010, during its trip to Germany. He particularly stressed on the findings pertaining to research and innovations.

He was accompanied by the Commission Deputy Commission Secretary in charge of Accreditation and Quality Assurance, Prof. Florence Lenga.

Prof. Some noted that healthy competition in research added value to research as an integral component of higher education.

Deputy Commission Secretary, National Council for Science and Technology (NCST) Dr. M.K Rugut assured the universities of his organization’s continued support of their research initiatives.

He said the NCST’s research kitty had been increased from Kshs.250 million in the last fiscal year to the current allocation of Kshs.400 million.

Dr. Rugut observed “This enhanced research kitty should be viewed as complementary to the existing research budgets of your respective universities”.

The Commission hosted a lecture delivered by a renowned don from Free University in Berlin, Germany. The Vice-

President of Research, Prof. Dr. Britta Schuett delivered a lecture on Strategic Research Management: Focus on Cooperation with Industry and Research Institutes on Friday 5th October 2012.

The lecture organized by the Commission, in conjunction with the National Council for Science and Technology (NCST) and DAAD brought together Vice -Chancellors, Principals of Colleges and Deputy Vice-Chancellors in charge of Research from universities in Kenya.

Participants benefited from a practical-oriented lecture which comprehensively covered the road to a strong research foundation drawn from experiences of Free University in Berlin Germany which has recorded both local and global

KMTC seeks CHE approval for collaboration

The Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) team and the Cardiff Metropolitan University of the United Kingdom

paid a courtesy call on the Chief Executive, Prof. Some to seek guidance on modalities for collaboration between KMTC and the UK University. The meeting took held in the CEO’s meeting room on 25th September 2012.

The visiting delegation comprising Mr. Lloyd Powell, head of Collaborative Provision, Cardiff University, Franklin Okonji, Deputy Director Academics KMTC, and Mr. Simon Kimani, Head Environmental Sciences, KMTC discussed the process of collaboration between two institutions in offering Bachelors degrees in Environmental Health.

Mr Peace Agufana, in charge of collaboration at Post Secondary School Institutions (PSSI) department, took the delegation through the stipulated requirements which are outlined in the Universities Act Cap 210 B, the University Rules 2004, the Criteria for Collaborations between Universities and Tertiary Institutions, the Curriculum Standards 2005.

The revision on the PSSI regulation was also discussed after the Education Bills (Universities Bill, the Science Technology and Innovations Bill; The TIVET Bill; and the Kenya Qualifications Framework Bill.) come into effect which the CEO chaired before his appointment.

Housing Finance seeks partnership

The Housing Finance and Agencies Francaise Du Development (AfD) sent a delegation to the Commission

for Higher Education to explore the possibility of constructing hostels for Kenyan university students.

Mr. Kariuki Kevin Kihara, Assistant General Manager Business opportunities at the Housing Corporation and Mr Hugo Pierrel, the AfD Programme Officer in Kenya and Burundi thrashed out the idea with the CEO, Prof. Some, when the team called on him at his office on 25th September.


The project which will see AfD offer to fund the housing agency and subsequent loaning of the kitty to universities will address the acute shortage of decent accommodation plaguing the universities. It will also be a breather to students whose accommodation will be offered at subsidized rates.In the tripartite relationship, CHE is expected to transmit the idea and identify possible institutions based on their accommodation deficit.

Zimbabwe official on study tour at the Commission

The Zimbabwe Council for Higher Education sent G.T Gurira to the Commission for a month-long study tour

to familiarize himself with aspects pertaining to regulation and quality assurance in the higher education sub-sector.

Mr. Gurira held discussions with the Commission Secretary and heads of divisions to gain an insight into the running, operations and welfare matters undertaken by the Commission. The Commission has been a ‘mother’ of all Commissions in the region and has been consulted by several countries intending to establish or enhance the capacity of their respective higher education regulatory agencies.

EXHIBITIONS/TRADE FAIRS

Chief Executive participates in Malaysian Education Fair

The Chief Executive of the Commission, Prof. David Kimutai Some attended the Kenya International Education Fair held at the Hilton Hotel Nairobi from 2nd

to 6th October. The fair was organized by the Malaysian Ministry of Tertiary Education Science and Research and Technology.

Prof. Some appealed to the higher education players to adapt best tenets of internalization and globalization as some of the

key components of the reform agenda. He observed adopting best tenets imparted relevant skills and competencies to learners for global competiveness. The Chief Executive singled out quality and recognition, access and equity, financing and cost policy coherence as some of the key parameters in the globalization of higher education.

Delivering the key note address, Assistant Minister Ministry for Higher Education, Science and Technology Hon. Dr. Kilemi Mwiria said access to education should be enhanced for better citizenry and participatory development initiatives. He challenged higher education managers to borrow success stories from developed countries if they are to achieve globalization of education.

Commission staff attend East African Higher Forum in

ArushaThe first ever East African Higher Education forum and

Exhibition kicked off in Arusha, Tanzania on Wednesday 24th October 2012 with participants calling on the need to bridge the gap between tertiary institutions and industries for knowledge –based economies to be established.The theme of the forum that was organized by the East African Business Council and Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA) was Linking Universities to Industry for Building Knowledge-based Economies and Regional Integration in East Africa.

Over 100 higher education managers, researchers, business community and policy makers in the region converged at Naura Springs Hotel to deliberate on the role of universities in fostering regional integration and the development of knowledge-based economies in the EAC partner states through university – industry linkages.Among the areas that formed sub-themes for discussion were:

• Harmonization of higher education and training systems through the development of regional quality assurance and accreditation systems and regional qualifications framework leading to East Africa becoming a common higher education are;

• Responsiveness of higher education systems to global and regional dynamics; and

• Research and innovation vehicles for promoting the region’s sustainable socio-economic development by creating knowledge-based economies in the community.

The Commission participated in the exhibitions that were held concurrently, where higher education institutions, business community, and other stakeholders displayed exhibitions on practical aspects of their operations and achievements as a way of promoting and enhancing university/industry partnerships.

The three-day event that ended on Friday 26th October was opened by the Tanzanian Vice-President, Mohammed Gharib Bilal who called for harmonization of higher education and training systems to facilitate free mobility of youth to study in universities of their choice in the region, as well as enhance free movement of graduates in the region. “Higher Education is also important for the promotion and protection of cultural diversity within our communities in democratization of the society and in the promotion and


supporting the trade in the region,” the Tanzanian Vice-President said.

The East African Community Secretary-General, Dr. Richard Sezibera observed that the inadequate financing of students and research continued to hamper expansion of the higher education sector in the region. He cautioned that this could compromise the quality of education delivered in the region.

Dr. Sezibera said “It is very critical for the region to diversify higher education and research financing opportunities by enhancing active participation by the private sector”.Various speakers stressed that education should be regarded as an increasingly strong determinant for the competitiveness and innovation of any economy.

Prof. Elie Buconyori, Chairperson of the Inter-University Council for East Africa said that a quality assurance framework in higher education was being developed to ensure quality academic standards.

“Without significant research inputs, attainment of knowledge –based economies in East Africa will remain a distant dream on paper,” Buconyori lamented.The forum attracted speakers both from the region and from Singapore and Germany who made presentations on how collaborative partnerships between the academic and business community can be enhanced.

The Commission was represented by Mrs. Eliza Mbatia, Head of Corporate Affairs and Esther Gathungu of the Chief Executive’s office attended the forum and mounted a stand at the exhibition venue.

Commission exhibits at Tanzanian university

exhibitionCommission for Higher Education took part in this year’s 7th

exhibition on Higher Education, Science and Technology organized by the Tanzanian Commission for Universities (TCU).

The Exhibition was held from 18th to 20th April 2012 at Diamond Jubilee Hall in Dar-es-Salaam Tanzania. To participate were Commission’s staff Mrs. Mary Oyolla of Internal Audit and Ms. Mary Njine from Commission Secretary’s Office.

The event provided a platform for the regional higher education sector to showcase their key services to a much larger audience. The event saw local and foreign universities, regional regulatory bodies, government agencies & ministries come together to interact more closely and share best practices in higher education.

Nairobi International Trade Fair pulls in crowds

This year’s Nairobi International Trade Fair opened its doors to the public on Friday 1st October 2012 and continued to

pull in crowds up to the final day on Sunday 7th October.Exhibitors showcased different products, services and technologies during the week-long event.

The Commission’s stand was hosted within the Ministry for Higher Education, Science and Technology which was ranked third best Higher Education Institution stand in Research Innovation.

In his address to the nation when he officially opened the trade fair, President Mwai Kibaki said that the theme of this year’s trade fair Enhancing Technology and Industry for Food Security and National Growth was “in tandem with our aspiration of making agriculture a prosperous and competitive sector.”

“Higher Education is also important for the promotion and protection of cultural diversity within our communities in democratization

of the society and in the promotion and supporting the trade in the region”


President Kibaki who is the Patron of the Agricultural Society of Kenya said that in 2003 the number of people living below the absolute poverty line of one dollar a day stood at 56% while those who were food insecure stood at 52%.

“Currently, despite the difficulties of drought, climate change, increasing global fuel costs and above all the impact of post-election violence, these numbers have declined to 46% and 36% respectively,” President Kibaki explained.

The Commission participated in the Mombasa International

Trade Fair which took place at the Nyali ASK grounds

from 27th August to 2nd September 2012. The fair provided an

opportunity for the Commission to cast its net to a broad

spectrum of audiences as various services and innovations

were showcased for public consumption.

During her tour of the Ministry stand, the Deputy Commission

Secretary (AQA), Prof. Florence Lenga said she was impressed

by the team work and elaborately set-up ‘high tech’ CHE stand

which, for the first time displayed services and innovations

electronically to the public on the ‘big’ screen.

Prof. Lenga represented the then Commission Secretary Prof.

Everett Standa at the show.

The Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology

stand which housed the Commission stand, was entered into

The President said that while the number of people living below the poverty line had not declined as fast as was desirable, due to rapid urbanization, food security had “significantly improved due to increased productivity.”

The Minister for Agriculture, Hon. Dr. Sally Kosgei said her ministry was implementing food security programmes whose objectives was to promote food security, increase farm incomes and improve the nutritional status of the beneficiaries.

four categories namely: Technological Innovation, Research and

Development, Higher Education Institution and Theme Interpretation.

The stand scooped the following two (2) positions:

• 1st best higher education institution; and

• 3rd best in Research and Development Project.

His Excellency President Mwai Kibaki who is also the ASK

patron was the Chief Guest during the official opening day.

In his address the President urged residents to tap into the

impressive array of innovations exhibited during the event. He

challenged those present to harness the untapped potential of

the Coast region.

The Head of State called for peaceful co-

existence to prevail among residents in

the region, a call that was echoed by the

local leaders present including Hassan

Joho, Ramadhan Kajembe, Naomi Shabaan

among others.

The Minister for Agriculture, Dr. Sally

Kosgey called for amendments to the then

pending VAT Bill which she argued would

skyrocket agricultural products.

Commission at the Mombasa Trade Fair

He challenged those present to harness the untapped potential

of the Coast region.


PICTORIAL

H.E. President Mwai Kibaki touring the stands upon his arrival at the Mombasa International Trade Fair

Participants from universities pose for a group photo

Chief Executive Officer, Prof David Some congratulated by Commissioner Chacha Nyaigoti Chacha after the handing over

ceremony at the Commission officesCommission staff member receives the Vice-President of Tanzania,

Mohammed Gharib Bilal at the CHE stand during the IUCEA Higher Education Forum and Exhibition in Arusha, Tanzania


PICTORIAL

CHE staff during Mombasa show Prof David Some, Chief Executive Officer holds talk with Mr. Paul Wanyaga, Chief Executive Officer Media Max Network Limited at

the commission CEO's office

CHE Fire Marshalls pose for a photo after undergoing a refresher course on Fire fighting in Mombasa

Pioneer University officials receiving the Letter of Interim Authority


STAFF NEWSISO auditors’ attend

refresher course

ISO Auditors attended a refresher course on Internal Quality Auditing to upgrade their skills at Pride Inn

Hotel, Mombasa from 28th to 29th June 2012. The 18-member team had been actively involved in carrying out internal audits and audit reviews at the Commission particularly in ensuring adherence of Quality Management System. The auditors periodically check on aspects such as:

¸ Objective evaluation of the existing risk and internal control framework;

¸ Systematic analysis of business processes and associated controls;

¸ Reviews of the compliance framework and specific compliance issues and

¸ Assess accomplishment of institutional goals and objectives.

Commission staff awarded a Doctorate degree

Assistant Commission Secretary in the Resource Centre, Mrs Beatrice Odera-Kwach has successfully completed

her PhD in Information Science from the University of South Africa (UNISA). Dr Kwach flew down south to Pretoria to attend a breathtaking graduation ceremony held at the university.

Dr. Beatrice Odera - Kwach poses for a photo during her graduation at University of South Africa (UNISA) with a PhD in Information

Science.

“It was a moment to cherish and will permanently be engraved in my memory,” a blissful Dr. Kwach told CHE Newsletter. On behalf of CHE Newsletter we give her a pat on the back for this great achievement.

‘Power’ conferred on two staff

Two members of staff added a ‘feather’ to their academic ‘hat’ when they were empowered to read. Pamela Sagala

of the Corporate Affairs and Lucia Muia of Internal Audit were

awarded Diplomas after successfully completing Business & Office Management programme from Inoorero University. The event took place on Saturday 17th November at the Kenyatta International Conference Centre, Tsavo Ball Room.

Lucia Muia (left) and Pamela Sagala are all smiles during the graduation

WELFARE/SACCO UPDATEStaff Welfare holds AGM

The Commission Staff Welfare Fund held its 15th Annual General Meeting on 29th September 2012 at CHE

Boardroom. The Chairman of the Welfare Fund, Gilbert Opanga encouraged members to make use of the soft loan facility so as to improve their financial status. He also urged the members to consider increasing their monthly contributions in order to enhance the welfare kitty.The Fund Auditor, Clifford Gicheru observed that the fund accounts had been properly maintained and the financial statements presented a true account of the audited finances. Welfare Treasurer, Betty Munene took members through the estimated budget for the current financial year.


Comhigh members educated on cooperative matters

Members of Comhigh SACCO society acquired additional knowledge pertaining to their savings as co-operative

society members, from resource persons in the movement, during this year’s Education Day held on Saturday, 13th October 2012 at the Commission offices.

Mr. James Mbui of Stima Sacco spoke on “The place of the Sacco Movement in Vision 2030” while Mr. Solicia Njeru of UN Sacco gave a talk on “Obligation of members to their Sacco and their personal financial management”.

The Chairman of the Education Committee, Mr. Samuel Kachumbo thanked members who attended for learning

more about their roles, responsibilities and saving potentials as Sacco members.

In a related development, the Management and Supervisory Committee of Comhigh Sacco attended a seminar at Marble Arch Hotel on Saturday, 6th October 2012, to enlighten them on the various aspects of managing Saccos. The officials were taken through Contemporary issues in relation to the Sacco Societies Regulatory Authority (SASRA) by Peter Njuguna, Chief Manager, Sacco Supervision. Mr. Njuguna was accompanied by his colleague David Kahuthu. Nancy Murda, Cooperative Officer, Westlands division gave a presentation on ‘The place of the Sacco movement in Vision 2030’.

The Commission for Higher Education recruited three members of staff in Internal Audit and Legal Affairs

Departments in October 2012 and Human Resources / Administration Department in November 2012.

Mr. Daniel Nalyanya Wekesa was appointed as an Internal Auditor, having come from Kenya National Assurance where he served in a similar position. He has worked in Kenya Forest Service and Mastermind Tobacco. Daniel holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting Option), CPA and CIA and is currently pursuing an MBA (Finance).

Mr. Isaac Wamute Gathirwa joins the Commission from the State Law Office where he served as a Senior State Counsel in the Attorney - General’s office. Mr. Gathirwa holds a Bachelor of Laws (LLB), MBA (Strategic Management), and is pursuing a Certified Public Secretaries (CPS) certification and Master of Laws (LLM). He is a member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitration (CIA), UK.

Mr. Elphas Kipchirchir Choge is the Commission’s new Human Resource and Administration Officer. Mr. Choge joined the Commission from the Horticultural Development

Authority, where until his appointment served as a Senior Human Resource Officer in the state corporation’s head office in Nairobi.He holds a Bachelor of Arts, Diploma in Human Resource, MBA (Human Resource Management) and currently pursuing a PhD programme in Strategic Management among other qualifications.

CHE Newsletter welcomes the new staff to the Commission family.

New Appointments

Mr. Daniel Nalyanya Wekesa

Internal Audit

Mr. Isaac Wamute GathirwaLegal Officer

Mr. Elphas K. Choge,HR & Administration Officer

Commission staff engage visitors to the stand during the IUCEA Higher Education Forum and Exhibition held in Arusha, Tanzania


Ken Ntong’ondu of Finance department was blessed

with a baby boy, Jeff Mutethia. Baby Mutethia was

born on 19th December 2011 at the Aga Khan

Hospital Nairobi.

***************************

Mr. Anthony Gitau of Procurement added a tally in his

siblings by being a proud father of Caleb Gitau. Baby

Caleb was born in Nairobi Hospital on the night of

28th March 2012.

***************************

Lukas Rasto Shirandula of DCS (PAF) office got a new baby

girl Nekesa Cecilia Shirandula. She was born in Cherang’anyi

Hospital in Kitale on 3rd July 2012.We wish baby Nekesa

(‘harvesting time’) abundance of joy and God’s fulfilment in

her life.

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Bereavements

Mrs Truphosa Ochuka lost her father, Mr. Joash Odum on 21st

January 2012. Mr. Odum was laid to rest on 4th February 2012

at Kolanya Village, Ngere location.

***************************

Mr. Ndoria Ngari, Head of Planning and Research Department

lost his dear cousin Warner Githua. Mr. Githua was laid to rest

on 23rd March 2012 in Mathira East district, Githei village Nyeri

County.

***************************

Mary Njine, of the Chief Executive’s office lost her younger

brother, Christopher Ireri Njine on 3rd June 2012. He was laid

to rest on 12th June 2012 at Mbiruri village in Runyenjes.

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Mary Oyolla, Head of Internal Audit, lost her mother in-law,

Mama Regina Akumu Ndenda on 6th June. The late Mama Regina

was buried on 16th June 2012 at Simakola village, Tingolo sub-

location of Busia County.

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Mr. Wallace Mbugua of Documentation and Information

Services (DIS) lost his beloved son James Kiarie on 4th July

2012 at Molo General Hospital. James was laid to rest on 11th

July in Olkalou.

***************************

Mrs. Elizabeth Wafula, Head of Administration/HR, lost her

brother, Mr. Rodel Nganga. Mr.

Nganga passed away on 28th July 2012 at the Coast General

Hospital. He was laid to rest on Saturday, 4th August 2012 at

his home in Tira Village, Mlechi sub-location, Wundanyi district.

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Former colleague passes on

The cruel hand of death robbed the Commission of a former

employee, Mr. Gilbert Kiambi. Popularly referred to as ‘mzee

wa zamu’, Kiambi served as Senior Administrative Officer for

a period of 13 years until his retirement in the late 1990s. He

was among the founding members of staff of the Commission

and for long the name of the Commission had come to be

associated with him. Members of staff who served at the time

recounted memorable times they shared with the late officer.

***************************

CHE Newsletter editorial team joins hands with the affected staff, family, relatives and friends in grieving the loss of their loved ones. May the Almighty God rest the souls of the departed, in eternal peace.

New borns


Leisure CornerSpiritual thought

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;”

- Philippians 4:6

Wisdom is a shelter, but the advantage of knowledge is this: that wisdom preserves the life of its possessor. - Ecclesiastes 7:2

In their words

“It is not the years one lives but life in the years that matter” ~Ndoria Ngari

Just a thought"Bad attitude is like a flat tyre ; you can't get anywhere, unless you change it"

- Contributed by Mrs Lynette Kisaka

Quotes CornerGenuine goodness is always threatening to those at the opposite end of the spectrum

- Anonymous

Wishful thinking

G-God’s R- Riches

Grace = A- At C- Christ’s E- Expense

Dr. Peter Okaalet, lay-preacher All Saints Cathedral, Nairobi Contributed by Eliza Mbatia

- Contributed by John Mutethia

Is your life progressive?Consider the following:

Contributed by Carol Muthoni


Vision

Quality university education that is accessible and sustainable.

Mission

To oversee quality assurance and expansion of university education ensuring sustainability, affordability and relevance.

Quality Policy Statement

The commission is committed to ensuring increased access to sustainable quality higher education and training through

planning, coordination, resource mobilization, quality assurance enhancement and information service.

Commission for Higher Education P.O. Box 54999 - 00200 Nairobi.

Tel: 7205000, 2021150 Ext 223/233/139, Email: [email protected] Website: www.che.or.ke

Documents

PROF. SOME APPOINTED AS In this Issue … NEWS.pdf · [email protected] [email protected] PROF. SOME APPOINTED AS COMMISSION CHIEF EXECUTIVE Prof. David Kimutai Some officially assumed