National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula Wednesday called for reforms in the education sector, saying this is a key area in the country’s development.
He spoke at his Parliament office during a meeting with a delegation from Daystar University led by Vice Chancellor Prof. Laban Ayiro who paid him a courtesy call.
They discussed challenges facing Kenya’s education system and the broader communication landscape. The session highlighted critical issues, among them misuse of education funds, the need for policy reform and the role of universities in shaping national narratives.
“We need to consolidate funds and bursaries,” said Speaker Wetang’ula. “Right now, we’re losing about 60% through theft. If we pool these resources, we can educate our students.”
Speaker Wetang’ula also urged the Daystar team to pioneer a new policy framework that would tackle systemic issues in the crucial sector.
At the same time, the Speaker challenged the team on using the Power of Communication to tell Kenya’s story differently.
“We need to start telling Kenya’s story differently,” Wetang’ula emphasized. “There are positive developments in this country, but they never make the headlines. It’s time to repackage constructive journalism and share the good that often goes unnoticed.”
Recognizing the pivotal role of universities in shaping societal progress, Speaker Wetang’ula asked Prof. Ayiro to harness the power of academic institutions to drive national transformation.
“Universities have a duty to lead change,” he said and noted: “Vice Chancellors can communicate and rationalize Kenya’s irreducible minimums, those fundamental priorities that must be addressed.”
In response, Prof. Ayiro echoed the need for a paradigm shift, particularly in how the government communicates with its citizens.
“The way we communicate has far-reaching implications. If we want real progress, we need to rethink our approach to both messaging and policy formulation,” the don said.
Speaker Wetang’ula also underscored the importance of combating academic dishonesty and urged the Vice Chancellor to explore solutions to the growing issue of counterfeit academic papers.
“Education must be safeguarded, and integrity restored,” he noted.
