The University of Nairobi Students Association (UNSA) has called for the swift appointment of a new Vice-Chancellor, citing growing concerns over a leadership vacuum and unresolved governance issues at the institution.
The student body is urging the Public Service Commission and the government to intervene and support the university council in effectively managing the university’s affairs.
UNSA leaders have warned that the leadership vacuum is negatively affecting university administration and leaving students without proper representation. The situation has been exacerbated by the suspension of student elections, which were initially scheduled for March 2025. The elections were halted following a court ruling in Siaya, leaving students without a formal platform to voice their concerns.
The unrest comes in the wake of a recent visit by the National Assembly Education Committee, which revealed that leadership conflicts at the university have resulted in 16 ongoing court cases. The committee is currently working to resolve the standoff between the university’s council and its management.
Students argue that the delay in appointing a Vice-Chancellor is deepening the governance crisis, disrupting the institution’s operations, and hindering effective student representation. They are calling on relevant authorities to expedite the process and restore stability to one of Kenya’s premier higher learning institutions.
