Chinese To Teach In Kenya’s Universities Amid Lecturers’ Shortage

Chinese have been contracted to lecture in Kenyan universities after a deal was brokered between Kenya and China.

Following the contract, Chinese tutors will share their technical skills with Kenya’s university students.

University Education Principal Secretary Simon Nabukwesi noted that the deal will enable Kenyans to sign up for more technical courses in the universities.

According to reports, the Chinese will kick off the project by teaching at the Taita Taveta University, Voi campus.

“Research has shown that this kind of expertise is lacking in East and Central Africa and also in Southern Africa.”

“The center that is going to be established here may serve a much wider region than just Kenya, and this is in the spirit of internationalizing our universities so that they can attract those who are interested in special programs from other countries,” Nabukwesi said as reported by a local publication.

The Vice-Chancellor for Taita Taveta University, Simiyu Barasa noted that the move to collaborate with the Chinese will help Kenya capitalize on its potential.

“Two of our lecturers are already in China working towards innovation. We are going to be more modern because of our partnerships with the experts and support from the Chinese government,” the VC said.

The move comes months after reports claimed that Kenyan Universities are experiencing shortages of Professors.

In June, Kenyatta University Vice-Chancellor, Paul Wainaina, has raised concern over few numbers of professors in the institution, saying the shortage might affect the quality of future education and research according to a report by Kenya News.

Prof. Wainaina further noted that the shortage might become worse as most Professors are likely to retire in the next few years.

“The future of every university lies with its think tanks who are the professors. There used to be a time when we used to be like eight full professors and several associates. Now it is worrying because I have just a few years left before I leave and I have not seen anyone close to a professor level,” he said as reported by Kenya News.

With the introduction of Chinese tutors, Kenya is hoping to bridge the gap in the Higher Education sector.