CHE Assuring Quality NEWS Higher Education A newsletter of the Commission for Higher Education November 2012 – February 2013

PROF. SOME APPOINTED AS In this Issue Prof. Some appointed...... Page 1 COMMISSION CHIEF EXECUTIVE Editorial...... Page 2 New Vice-Chair...... Page 3 Ranking Workshop...... page 5 Public lecture...... Page 6 Housing Finance...... Page 6 Trade Fair participation...... Page 7 Pictorial...... Page 10 Staff news...... Page 12 SACCO News...... Page 12 Appointments...... Page 13 Bereavement...... Page 14

Editorial Advisors Prof. David K. Some Prof. Florence K. Lenga Mr. Joel Mberia

Chief Editor Mrs. Elizabeth Wafula

Editorial Committee Mrs. Eliza Mbatia Mrs. Teresa Muthui Mr. Calvine Paul Oredi Mr. John Mutethia 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) Photography in a ceremony presided over by the Chairman, Prof. Ezra Maritim and the Vice-Chairperson PR Office Mrs. Jane Ngige (at back). CHE News is a quarterly publication of the Commission for Higher Education rof. David Kimutai Some officially assumed office as the new Commission Secretary/ (CHE). PChief Executive Officer of the Commission for Higher Education. Prof. Some has We encourage brief comments or served in several capacities within the university sector, notable among them as a Vice- articles on topical issues related to Chancellor of Moi University. higher education. Send in your articles to: His most recent appointment was as Chairman of the Task Force on Re-alignment of The Public Relations Office, P.O. Box University Education with the New Constitution, 2011. 54999- 00200 . Prof. Some received the instruments of authority and operations in a colourful Tel: 7205000, 2021150 Ext 223/233, ceremony presided over by the Commission Chairman, Prof. Ezra Maritim accompanied Email: [email protected] or by Commission members. [email protected] [email protected] (Continued on pg3)

ISO 9001:2008 Certified A newsletter of the Commission for Higher Education November 2012 – February 2013 | 1 Message From Chief Executive

Prof. David Kimutai Some Chief Executive

would like to take this opportunity to reiterate the harmonized quality assurance system nationally and regionally Iimportant role that the Commission for Higher Education through collaboration with regulatory bodies in Uganda, plays in sustenance of quality in higher education in . Tanzania and Burundi. Embracing a harmonized quality assurance The Commission has made significant progress in re-inventing system in the East African region will ensure that there is itself in order to meet the expectations of stakeholders and to comparability of the quality of university education among the expand access to quality university education by Kenyans. The member countries which meets internationally recognized partnerships and linkages established at national, regional and standards. Affiliation to the International Network of Quality international levels has enabled the Commission to mitigate Assurance Agencies for Higher Education (INQAAHE) and various challenges in the higher education sector. African Quality Assurance Network (AfriQAN) has enabled the Commission to embrace best practices in quality assurance The Commission continues to align itself to national priorities both regionally and internationally. as detailed in Vision 2030 and within the current policy framework for education and training in Kenya. More focus The CHE Newsletter issue of November 2012 – February 2013 is hinged to the on-going reforms in university sub-sector as therefore, outlines some of the key activities and events that articulated in the Sessional Paper No. 1 of 2005 and particularly have taken place at the Commission. I believe the newsletter the Universities’ Bill which is at an advanced stage. The bill will provide useful reading to enlighten, educate and entertain will give legal mandate to the Commission to inspect, regulate not only our members of staff, but the larger higher education and safeguard provision of higher education both in public fraternity in the country. We have a duty to ensure that the and private universities in Kenya. This will ensure that quality, quality of university education is maintained in line with the relevance and standards in university education and training in mandate of the Commission. the country are maintained.

Prof. David Kimutai Some Mechanisms have been put in place to ensure that there is a Chief Executive

2 | A newsletter of the Commission for Higher Education November 2012 – February 2013 New Vice - Chair Appointed Prioritise Quality University is Excellency the President Hon. Mwai Kibaki appointed HMrs. Jane Ngige to serve as the Vice-Chairperson of the Education Higher Education Commission for Higher Education with effect from 30th July 2012, for a period of five (5) years. Mrs. Ngige was appointed Minister Urges to replace Prof. Judy Mbula Bahemuka who resigned to take up he Minister for Higher Education, Science and Technology, other national duties. THon. 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.

Mrs. Jane Ngige Vice-Chairperson, CHE

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.”

(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. Kamar made these remarks during a regional workshop Prof. Maritim urged the Commission to brace itself for the on quality assurance for universities in East Africa held at anticipated changes occasioned by envisaged Universities Bill Utalii Hotel from 18th – 22nd June 2012. The Minister lauded 2012 and the on-going restructuring of the Commission. the collaborative efforts made by IUCEA, DAAD, Oldenburg University and the regulatory agencies in the region since The former Chief Executive, Prof. Everett Standa highlighted key 2004, with regards to institutionalization of quality assurance areas that Commission had made remarkable progress among in the partner regional universities. them: Increased assess of university education, improved quality education, continued commitment to relevance, introduction “Universities should keep their ears to the ground in order to of criteria for university ranking, various research initiatives remain focused and relevant to the situational realities of the and staff welfare mechanisms. e-world” she advised. The Minister noted that comprehensive internal quality assurance should be in tandem with the In his inaugural address, the new CEO, Prof. David Some external policies as a gauge for “fitness for purpose”. appreciated the opportunity given to serve as the CEO. Prof. Some outlined the milestones achieved by his predecessor Commission Chairman Prof. Ezra Maritim termed the Prof. Standa during his six-year the tenure at the Commission. institutions as ‘gatekeepers’ of quality assurance hence directly accountable for the quality of graduates they produce. Prof. Prof. Some said that he would build up on what was already in Maritim also noted the need for institutions to re-think place to further realize the mandate of the Commission. The their mode of delivery while adhering to quality. “Expansion newly appointed CEO said he is up to the task and would do of universities, Vision 2030 and the new constitutional his best to see that the Commission promoted quality higher dispensation are some of the milestones in higher education education and was a force to reckon with, not only in Kenya sector the country has made,” the Chairman said. 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 ...‘gatekeepers’ of quality assurance hence their duties. He pledged to work closely with all staff regardless directly accountable for the quality of of their position “as each one of us has something to offer”. graduates they produce. 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.

A newsletter of the Commission for Higher Education November 2012 – February 2013 | 3 State boosts funding for higher education, Kibaki says he Government has increased funding to the higher the HELB, he said. Teducation sector in order to support more needy students, The Head of State urged universities to supplement President Mwai Kibaki has said. Government efforts to avail higher education by raising funds Speaking in Kisumu during the award of Charter to Great for bursaries, scholarships and establishing financial schemes Lakes University of Kisumu on 16th November 2012, Kibaki to enhance access to tertiary education. said the Government would also fund students studying within He said there was need for universities across the country to the East African Community. support the building of a new country by developing selfless, President Kibaki said there was need for those who had honest and transformational leaders who have the interests of managed to complete their university education through 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 funding from the scheme, to repay their loans, so that other need for government to work towards expanding access to needy students could benefit from the scheme to access meet the growing need for university education.” She urged higher education. universities to start 24-hour learning programmes so that He also encouraged the private sector to support government those who qualify in higher education are not left out. initiatives in recovering loans issued through HELB. The Public Service Minister, Dalmas Otieno, who represented the President called on the private sector to demand clearance Prime Minister Raila Odinga urged universities and faith-based certificates from HELB as a prerequisite for employment institutions to help rid the country of the ethnicity pandemic. “I am pleased that it is now a requirement that in order to The University Chancellor, Prof. Wasawo said the institution qualify for most public offices, one must secure clearance from 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.

...in order to qualify for most public offices, one must secure clearance from the HELB,...

4 | A newsletter of the Commission for Higher Education November 2012 – February 2013 WORKSHOPS AND Workshop discusses best SEMINARS practices for ranking quality Stakeholders discuss criteria assurance in regional for ranking and rating agencies he Commission organized a one-day workshop on Good universities TPractices in External Quality Assurance Agencies at the Kenya School of Monetary Studies (KSMS) on 15th May 2012. niversity stakeholders should adapt best practices in Uworking out the most feasible criteria for ranking/ rating their institutions, a workshop held in Nairobi was told. The workshop was organized in collaboration with the International Network for Quality Assurance Agencies in The stakeholders’ workshop was held at the Kenya School Higher Education (INQAAHE) and the African Quality th of Monitory Studies on 19 September 2012 organized by Assurance Network (AfriQAN). The workshop drew the Commission for Higher Education, Ministry of Higher delegates from 15 countries. Education Science and Technology and German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) Africa Regional office.

Participants of the workshop held at Kenya School of Monetary Studies

It provided a forum for participating agencies to objectively rate The Minister for Higher Education, Science and Technology, themselves on good practices in quality assurance using an on Hon. Prof. Margaret Kamar who officially opened the workshop said that rating of Kenyan universities would not only raise site assessment instrument developed by Deputy Commission awareness of the rated universities’ status, but also help in Secretary (AQA), Prof. Florence K. Lenga in collaboration with developing a rationale for judging training in higher education Prof. Peter Okebukola the President of GUNI-Africa. institutions. Using this instrument the participants objectively ranked “We need to come up with competitive models in our institutions to build global competiveness by adopting Tanzania Commission for Universities (TCU) with the highest strategies such as bench-marking and ranking”, she said in a score, National Universities Commission (NUC) Nigeria was speech read on her behalf by her Higher Education Secretary, ranked second while the Higher Education Relevance and Prof. Harry Kaane. Quality Agency (HERQA) was ranked third. The use of this objectively designed instrument was considered revolutionary. 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 The 18-member delegation discussed 30 good practices added was a key driver of international competitiveness. submitted from 16 External Quality Assurance Agencies (EQAA) including the Commission. The results of the Input from the stakeholders will be harmonized with the draft workshop will contribute towards the consolidation of good criterion prepared before a consensus on operationalization practices for African EQAA. is agreed upon.

A newsletter of the Commission for Higher Education November 2012 – February 2013 | 5 CHE hosts lecture by German varsity don

he Commission hosted a lecture delivered by a renowned successes. Practical methods including research models such Tdon from Free University in , . The Vice- as ‘Nanoscale’ were demonstrated. President of Research, Prof. Dr. Britta Schuett delivered a lecture on Strategic Research Management: Focus on Cooperation The visiting German varsity don urged her counterparts from with Industry and Research Institutes on Friday 5th October 2012. 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 The lecture organized by the Commission, in conjunction of his organization’s continued support of their research with the National Council for Science and Technology (NCST) initiatives. and DAAD brought together Vice -Chancellors, Principals of Colleges and Deputy Vice-Chancellors in charge of Research He said the NCST’s research kitty had been increased from from universities in Kenya. Kshs.250 million in the last fiscal year to the current allocation of Kshs.400 million. Participants benefited from a practical-oriented lecture which comprehensively covered the road to a strong research Dr. Rugut observed “This enhanced research kitty should be foundation drawn from experiences of Free University in viewed as complementary to the existing research budgets of Berlin Germany which has recorded both local and global your respective universities”.

KMTC seeks CHE approval The revision on the PSSI regulation was also discussed after the Education Bills (Universities Bill, the Science Technology and for collaboration Innovations Bill; The TIVET Bill; and the Kenya Qualifications he Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) team and the Framework Bill.) come into effect which the CEO chaired TCardiff Metropolitan University of the before his appointment. 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. Housing Finance seeks The visiting delegation comprising Mr. Lloyd Powell, head of Collaborative Provision, Cardiff University, Franklin Okonji, partnership Deputy Director Academics KMTC, and Mr. Simon Kimani, he Housing Finance and Agencies Francaise Du Head Environmental Sciences, KMTC discussed the process of TDevelopment (AfD) sent a delegation to the Commission collaboration between two institutions in offering Bachelors for Higher Education to explore the possibility of constructing degrees in Environmental Health. hostels for Kenyan university students. Mr Peace Agufana, in charge of collaboration at Post Secondary Mr. Kariuki Kevin Kihara, Assistant General Manager Business School Institutions (PSSI) department, took the delegation opportunities at the Housing Corporation and Mr Hugo through the stipulated requirements which are outlined in Pierrel, the AfD Programme Officer in Kenya and Burundi the Universities Act Cap 210 B, the University Rules 2004, the thrashed out the idea with the CEO, Prof. Some, when the Criteria for Collaborations between Universities and Tertiary team called on him at his office on 25th September. Institutions, the Curriculum Standards 2005.

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

The project which will see AfD offer to fund the housing Arusha agency and subsequent loaning of the kitty to universities will address the acute shortage of decent accommodation plaguing he first ever East African Higher Education forum and the universities. It will also be a breather to students whose TExhibition kicked off in Arusha, Tanzania on Wednesday th accommodation will be offered at subsidized rates. 24 October 2012 with participants calling on the need to In the tripartite relationship, CHE is expected to transmit bridge the gap between tertiary institutions and industries for the idea and identify possible institutions based on their knowledge –based economies to be established. accommodation deficit. 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 official on study Knowledge-based Economies and Regional Integration in East Africa. Over 100 higher education managers, researchers, business tour at the Commission community and policy makers in the region converged at he Zimbabwe Council for Higher Education sent G.T Naura Springs Hotel to deliberate on the role of universities TGurira to the Commission for a month-long study tour in fostering regional integration and the development of to familiarize himself with aspects pertaining to regulation and knowledge-based economies in the EAC partner states quality assurance in the higher education sub-sector. through university – industry linkages. Among the areas that formed sub-themes for discussion were: Mr. Gurira held discussions with the Commission Secretary and • Harmonization of higher education and training systems heads of divisions to gain an insight into the running, operations through the development of regional quality assurance and welfare matters undertaken by the Commission. The and accreditation systems and regional qualifications Commission has been a ‘mother’ of all Commissions in the framework leading to East Africa becoming a common region and has been consulted by several countries intending higher education are; to establish or enhance the capacity of their respective higher education regulatory agencies. • 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 EXHIBITIONS/TRADE creating knowledge-based economies in the community. FAIRS The Commission participated in the exhibitions that were held concurrently, where higher education institutions, business community, and other stakeholders displayed exhibitions on Chief Executive participates practical aspects of their operations and achievements as a way in Malaysian Education Fair of promoting and enhancing university/industry partnerships. The three-day event that ended on Friday 26th October was he Chief Executive of the Commission, Prof. David opened by the Tanzanian Vice-President, Mohammed Gharib Kimutai Some attended the Kenya International Bilal who called for harmonization of higher education and Education Fair held at the Hilton Hotel Nairobi from 2nd training systems to facilitate free mobility of youth to study Tth in universities of their choice in the region, as well as enhance to 6 October. The fair was organized by the Malaysian Ministry of Tertiary Education Science and Research and Technology. free movement of graduates in the region.

Prof. Some appealed to the higher education players to adapt “Higher Education is also important for the promotion and best tenets of internalization and globalization as some of the protection of cultural diversity within our communities in democratization of the society and in the promotion and

A newsletter of the Commission for Higher Education November 2012 – February 2013 | 7 Commission exhibits at Tanzanian university exhibition ommission for Higher Education took part in this year’s 7th Cexhibition on Higher Education, Science and Technology organized by the Tanzanian Commission for Universities (TCU).

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 The Exhibition was held from 18th to 20th April 2012 at compromise the quality of education delivered in the region. Diamond Jubilee Hall in Dar-es-Salaam Tanzania. To participate were Commission’s staff Mrs. Mary Oyolla of Internal Audit Dr. Sezibera said “It is very critical for the region to diversify and Ms. Mary Njine from Commission Secretary’s Office. higher education and research financing opportunities by enhancing active participation by the private sector”. Various speakers stressed that education should be regarded The event provided a platform for the regional higher as an increasingly strong determinant for the competitiveness education sector to showcase their key services to a much and innovation of any economy. larger audience. The event saw local and foreign universities, regional regulatory bodies, government agencies & ministries Prof. Elie Buconyori, Chairperson of the Inter-University come together to interact more closely and share best Council for East Africa said that a quality assurance framework practices in higher education. 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 Nairobi International Trade paper,” Buconyori lamented. The forum attracted speakers both from the region and from Fair pulls in crowds Singapore and Germany who made presentations on how collaborative partnerships between the academic and business his year’s Nairobi International Trade Fair opened its doors community can be enhanced. Tto the public on Friday 1st October 2012 and continued to pull in crowds up to the final day on Sunday 7th October. The Commission was represented by Mrs. Eliza Mbatia, Head Exhibitors showcased different products, services and of Corporate Affairs and Esther Gathungu of the Chief technologies during the week-long event. Executive’s office attended the forum and mounted a stand at the exhibition venue. 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 “Higher Education is also important for the Innovation. promotion and protection of cultural diversity In his address to the nation when he officially opened the trade within our communities in democratization fair, President Mwai Kibaki said that the theme of this year’s of the society and in the promotion and trade fair Enhancing Technology and Industry for Food Security and National Growth was “in tandem with our aspiration of making supporting the trade in the region” agriculture a prosperous and competitive sector.”

8 | A newsletter of the Commission for Higher Education November 2012 – February 2013 President Kibaki who is the Patron of the Agricultural Society The President said that while the number of people living below of Kenya said that in 2003 the number of people living below the poverty line had not declined as fast as was desirable, due the absolute poverty line of one dollar a day stood at 56% to rapid urbanization, food security had “significantly improved while those who were food insecure stood at 52%. due to increased productivity.”

“Currently, despite the difficulties of drought, climate change, The Minister for Agriculture, Hon. Dr. Sally Kosgei said her increasing global fuel costs and above all the impact of post- ministry was implementing food security programmes whose election violence, these numbers have declined to 46% and objectives was to promote food security, increase farm 36% respectively,” President Kibaki explained. incomes and improve the nutritional status of the beneficiaries.

Commission at the Mombasa Trade Fair

he Commission participated in the Mombasa International four categories namely: Technological Innovation, Research and TTrade Fair which took place at the Nyali ASK grounds Development, Higher Education Institution and Theme Interpretation. from 27th August to 2nd September 2012. The fair provided an The stand scooped the following two (2) positions: opportunity for the Commission to cast its net to a broad • 1st best higher education institution; and spectrum of audiences as various services and innovations • 3rd best in Research and Development Project. were showcased for public consumption. His Excellency President Mwai Kibaki who is also the ASK patron was the Chief Guest during the official opening day. During her tour of the Ministry stand, the Deputy Commission In his address the President urged residents to tap into the Secretary (AQA), Prof. Florence Lenga said she was impressed impressive array of innovations exhibited during the event. He by the team work and elaborately set-up ‘high tech’ CHE stand challenged those present to harness the untapped potential of which, for the first time displayed services and innovations 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.

He challenged those present to harness the untapped potential electronically to the public on the ‘big’ screen. of the Coast region. 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

A newsletter of the Commission for Higher Education November 2012 – February 2013 | 9 PICTORIAL

Participants from universities pose for a group photo H.E. President Mwai Kibaki touring the stands upon his arrival at the Mombasa International Trade Fair

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

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

A newsletter of the Commission for Higher Education November 2012 – February 2013 | 11 awarded Diplomas after successfully completing Business & STAFF NEWS Office Management programme from Inoorero University. The event took place on Saturday 17th November at the Kenyatta ISO auditors’ attend International Conference Centre, Tsavo Ball Room. refresher course Auditors attended a refresher course on Internal ISO 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. Lucia Muia (left) and Pamela Sagala are all smiles during the graduation Commission staff awarded a Doctorate degree WELFARE/SACCO UPDATE ssistant Commission Secretary in the Resource Centre, AMrs Beatrice Odera-Kwach has successfully completed her PhD in Information Science from the University of South Staff Welfare holds AGM Africa (UNISA). Dr Kwach flew down south to Pretoria he Commission Staff Welfare Fund held its 15th Annual to attend a breathtaking graduation ceremony held at the th university. TGeneral Meeting on 29 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.

Dr. Beatrice Odera - Kwach poses for a photo during her graduation at University of (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 wo members of staff added a ‘feather’ to their academic T‘hat’ when they were empowered to read. Pamela Sagala of the Corporate Affairs and Lucia Muia of Internal Audit were

12 | A newsletter of the Commission for Higher Education November 2012 – February 2013 Comhigh members educated on cooperative matters embers of Comhigh SACCO society acquired additional more about their roles, responsibilities and saving potentials Mknowledge pertaining to their savings as co-operative as Sacco members. society members, from resource persons in the movement, th In a related development, the Management and Supervisory during this year’s Education Day held on Saturday, 13 October Committee of Comhigh Sacco attended a seminar at Marble 2012 at the Commission offices. Arch Hotel on Saturday, 6th October 2012, to enlighten them Mr. James Mbui of Stima Sacco spoke on “The place of the on the various aspects of managing Saccos. The officials were Sacco Movement in Vision 2030” while Mr. Solicia Njeru of taken through Contemporary issues in relation to the Sacco UN Sacco gave a talk on “Obligation of members to their Societies Regulatory Authority (SASRA) by Peter Njuguna, Chief Sacco and their personal financial management”. Manager, Sacco Supervision. Mr. Njuguna was accompanied by his colleague David Kahuthu. Nancy Murda, Cooperative The Chairman of the Education Committee, Mr. Samuel Officer, Westlands division gave a presentation on ‘The place of Kachumbo thanked members who attended for learning the Sacco movement in Vision 2030’. New Appointments he Commission for Higher Education recruited three Authority, where until his appointment served as a Senior Tmembers of staff in Internal Audit and Legal Affairs Human Resource Officer in the state corporation’s head office Departments in October 2012 and Human Resources / in Nairobi. Administration Department in November 2012. He holds a Bachelor of Arts, Diploma in Human Resource, MBA (Human Resource Management) and currently pursuing Mr. Daniel Nalyanya Wekesa was appointed as an Internal a PhD programme in Strategic Management among other Auditor, having come from Kenya National Assurance where qualifications. 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. Elphas K. Choge, HR & Administration Officer

Mr. Daniel Nalyanya Wekesa Internal Audit

CHE Newsletter welcomes the new staff to the Commission family.

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. Isaac Wamute Gathirwa Legal Officer

Commission staff engage visitors to the stand during the IUCEA Higher Education Forum and Exhibition held in Arusha, Tanzania Mr. Elphas Kipchirchir Choge is the Commission’s new Human Resource and Administration Officer. Mr. Choge joined the Commission from the Horticultural Development

A newsletter of the Commission for Higher Education November 2012 – February 2013 | 13 New borns

Ken Ntong’ondu of Finance department was blessed with a baby boy, Jeff Mutethia. Baby Mutethia was Mr. Wallace Mbugua of Documentation and Information born on 19th December 2011 at the Aga Khan Services (DIS) lost his beloved son James Kiarie on 4th July Hospital Nairobi. 2012 at Molo General Hospital. James was laid to rest on 11th July in Olkalou. *************************** *************************** 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 Mrs. Elizabeth Wafula, Head of Administration/HR, lost her 28th March 2012. 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 Lukas Rasto Shirandula of DCS (PAF) office got a new baby his home in Tira Village, Mlechi sub-location, Wundanyi district. 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. *************************** Former colleague passes on Bereavements The cruel hand of death robbed the Commission of a former

Mrs Truphosa Ochuka lost her father, Mr. Joash Odum on 21st employee, Mr. Gilbert Kiambi. Popularly referred to as ‘mzee January 2012. Mr. Odum was laid to rest on 4th February 2012 wa zamu’, Kiambi served as Senior Administrative Officer for at Kolanya Village, Ngere location. 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 Mr. Ndoria Ngari, Head of Planning and Research Department recounted memorable times they shared with the late officer. lost his dear cousin Warner Githua. Mr. Githua was laid to rest on 23rd March 2012 in Mathira East district, Githei village Nyeri *************************** County.

*************************** CHE Newsletter editorial team joins hands with Mary Njine, of the Chief Executive’s office lost her younger the affected staff, family, relatives and friends in brother, Christopher Ireri Njine on 3rd June 2012. He was laid grieving the loss of their loved ones. May the to rest on 12th June 2012 at Mbiruri village in Runyenjes. Almighty God rest the souls of the departed, in eternal peace.

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

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.

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

14 | A newsletter of the Commission for Higher Education November 2012 – February 2013 Leisure Corner Spiritual 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

Is your life progressive? Consider the following:

Contributed by Carol Muthoni

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 Corner Genuine 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

A newsletter of the Commission for Higher Education November 2012 – February 2013 | 15 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

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