2025 Intake Open University of Kenya
2025 Intake Open University of Kenya

The Higher Ed Bar

Grade 12 is Enough: Don’t Extend CBE to University Education

Competency Based Education is highly effective at the basic education level but is not suitable as a full model for university learning. Universities play a distinct role in fostering critical thinking theoretical understanding and knowledge...

Professional Bodies Overriding Academia: The Quiet Crisis in Universities

The growing influence of professional bodies over academic decisions is quietly reshaping universities, risking the erosion of academic autonomy and scholarly standards. When professional registration begins to outweigh academic qualifications, universities drift from centers of...

The Legitimacy of Non-PhDs as Academic Staff in Universities

The growing reliance on non-PhD teaching staff signals a gradual shift away from the core academic standards and research-driven mission that define universities. Turning transitional academic roles into permanent positions risks weakening teaching quality, limiting...

Rethinking Quality Assurance in Kenyan Universities

Kenya’s rapid expansion of universities has outpaced investment in quality assurance systems, infrastructure, staffing, and research capacity, resulting in persistent gaps that undermine graduate preparedness and global competitiveness. Although frameworks like CUE and IUCEA exist,...

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) as a Quality Assurance Tool

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) validates skills gained outside formal education through rigorous, standardized assessment, ensuring that qualifications reflect real-world competencies while maintaining academic integrity. As a quality assurance tool, RPL promotes transparency, consistency, equity,...

Need to Regulate International Schools in Kenya Offering Foreign Curricula

Kenya’s rapid growth of international schools offering foreign curricula has outpaced the development of a clear, unified regulatory framework, exposing gaps in quality assurance, accountability, and consumer protection. While these schools provide global opportunities and...

The Redefined Return-on-Investment of University Education in Kenya

University education in Kenya is no longer a guaranteed pathway to employment, as rising graduate numbers and limited job opportunities have redefined the traditional return on investment of a degree. The growing mismatch between university...

Reimagining Quality Assurance in the TVET Ecosystem: A Regional Expert Overview of Challenges and...

Quality assurance in Africa’s TVET sector must evolve from a narrow compliance-based system to an outcome-driven approach that prioritizes real workplace competencies, industry collaboration, and continuous improvement in training. The growing diversity of TVET providers,...

Nyamira University: From Deferred Dream to Urgent Priority

After more than a decade of waiting, Nyamira’s university dream must now become real opportunity for a new generation. Nyamira University College is a catalyst for economic growth, youth empowerment, and regional equity. Delivering Nyamira University...

Authentic Achievement: National Schools as Benchmarks for KCSE Integrity

National schools prove that excellence in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education comes from integrity, structure, and accountability, not shortcuts. Their success rests on merit, strong leadership, motivated teachers, and committed parents working together. Kenya’s path...