The University of Nairobi Senate has approved the resumption of phased on-campus learning starting from November 9, 2020.

“First-year students in the Colleges of Agriculture and Veterinary Sciences, Architecture and Engineering, Biological and Physical Sciences, Health Sciences and all students pursuing sciences in the College of Education and External Studies to report on this date to their respective colleges,” announced the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Stephen Kiama in his address to the UoN Community. “The rest of the students will continue with online learning until further notice.”

The Senate decision is meant to help the students whose programs require practical learning in the laboratory to report back to campus. The Vice-chancellor called on the students and members of staff to remain vigilant and that the safe resumption of on-campus learning requires conformity to the Ministry of Health’s COVID-19 protocols and guidelines. I appeal to all members of staff and students to remain vigilant.

Prof. Kiama also announced that the Pardon Advisory Committee had reviewed and recommended several students to be readmitted to the University. These students will receive their letters of re-admission.

“This is a big milestone for the University of Nairobi. It is my hope that the students will take this offer for a second chance to complete their studies and go out to serve the society,” he added. “In addition, the 64th Graduation Ceremony is slated to take place on December 11, 2020.”

Whistle blower policy

The Council recently approved the whistleblower policy which was circulated to all stakeholders. The policy sets out the organizational approach and obligation to the detection and prevention of corruption and malpractice within the University of Nairobi. It will provide a procedure for the making of good faith disclosures; protection of those who make such disclosures from reprisals; and a mechanism for an appropriate investigation of and response to such disclosures.

“I encourage all staff and students to read and internalize this policy as it takes full effect. I believe that the full implementation of this policy will improve accountability, efficiency and effectiveness of all our operations, ensure value for money in all expenditures and consequently enhance the
performance of the University” added Prof. Kiama.

The Vice-Chancellor also had some good news for the members of staff.

“The Council recently approved the guidelines on recruitment and promotion of academic members of staff,” he announced. “As you are aware, many promotions were pending because we did not have an approved criterion for promotion of the teaching members of staff since the one we used before was challenged in court. I thank all members of staff for contributing to the development of the guidelines and for remaining patient.”

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