Prof. Maurice Oduor Okoth

A World Bank report reveals that it takes Kenyan graduates an average of five years to secure employment. Some are turning to digital work—transcription, social media management, or copywriting—but these roles often lack stability and benefits. To address this crisis, Kenya must align university curricula with job market needs, expand formal sector jobs, support employability initiatives, and provide incentives such...

Schools need well-organized staff rooms, offices for teachers, and a school administration block to facilitate planning and coordination. Physical education is a key component of the curriculum, and without proper facilities, students miss out on opportunities to develop their talents in athletics, football, netball, and other sports. With Kenya’s push for ICT integration in education, schools should have internet connectivity and...

Understanding the trends shaping the future of jobs is key to ensuring that the workforce is equipped with the right skills, mindsets, and resilience to thrive in an unpredictable labour market. While regions like Africa and South Asia face youth population booms offering labour potential, developed nations grapple with aging populations, increasing demand for healthcare and elderly support services. Clerical and...

Physical barriers remain one of the most visible challenges. Many schools lack the necessary infrastructure to accommodate learners with physical disabilities. Despite Kenya's commitment to inclusive education, funding for special needs schools remains a significant challenge. It is time for government agencies, educators, parents, civil society organisations, and development partners to join forces and turn commitments into concrete action. Inclusive education is...

Beyond the tech industry, data science is now central to progress across many sectors, including education, agriculture, healthcare, finance, and transport. It’s a powerful tool for solving real-world problems and shaping the future. With growing opportunities and competitive earnings, data science offers university students and young professionals a dynamic career path to shape Kenya’s digital transformation and solve real-world challenges. To...

In recent years, Kenya's research institutions have faced significant financial challenges due to reduced government funding. Another major consequence is brain drain, where Kenyan researchers seek better-funded opportunities abroad. To bridge these gaps, the government must rethink its domestic research funding model, improve financial accountability, and streamline the distribution of funds. Research plays a critical role in national development, driving innovation, informing...

Mathematics is often regarded as the backbone of education, influencing various aspects of life beyond the classroom. From problem-solving to career development, financial literacy, and analytical thinking, mathematics plays a crucial role in shaping well-rounded individuals prepared for the challenges of the modern world. Mathematics supports the understanding of other subjects, particularly in sciences and social sciences. Physics and chemistry...

Dr. Nancy Macharia’s ability to handle complex administrative tasks with efficiency earned her a reputation as a results-oriented leader, setting the stage for her eventual appointment as CEO. Her career trajectory is a testament to her unwavering commitment to improving the quality of education in Kenya. Dr. Macharia’s tenure was also characterized by strained industrial relations with key teachers' unions,...

The United States (US) has historically played a crucial role in shaping higher education and research in Africa through academic partnerships, funding initiatives, and scholarship programs. If research funding and academic mobility continue to decline, African scholars may seek opportunities in Europe, Asia, or other regions. This could result in a loss of skilled researchers essential for driving innovation in...

Unlike legitimate PhD programs that require years of rigorous research, coursework, and thesis defense, these schemes churn out “doctors” after just a few days or weeks, all for a hefty fee. Victims of degree mills are often professionals, politicians, and public servants seeking quick PhD credentials to boost their careers and social standing. Many fall for these scams due to...