Senator Maina demands answers over financial crisis at Technical University of Kenya

𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬

Sen Veronica Maina has raised concerns over the financial crisis at the Technical University of Kenya (TUK), warning of looming staff layoffs and contractual changes that could undermine education quality and staff welfare.

She has called on the Senate Committee on Education to provide clarity on the planned restructuring, including measures to mitigate the impact of staff cuts and address potential shortages in teaching personnel. The senator warned that reducing staff numbers to 893 by the 2027/2028 financial year could destabilise the institution. She has also demanded a full breakdown of how the projected Ksh 2.44 billion in savings will contribute to financial stability.

Sen Maina has questioned the legal basis for altering employment terms, including contract renewals, gratuity payments and the decision to replace contract staff with part-time lecturers while retaining a set number of Graduate Assistants and Tutorial Fellows. She has called for an explanation of the financial rationale behind these changes and their expected cost savings.

Further, the senator has sought details on support measures for affected staff, including consultations with unions and stakeholders, the selection process for terminations and any compensation plans. She has also urged the committee to outline the government’s broader strategy for stabilising public universities and ensuring sustainable funding.

Sen Maina has asked for a report on alternative revenue-generating measures the university is considering to reduce its reliance on government funding and prevent future financial crises.