Leaders call for democracy in varsities at KU graduation

By Sam Otieno

Kenyatta University yesterday held its 26th graduation ceremony despite being closed after a wave of student riots three months ago.

The institution seemed to have moved on from its dark past with the council and senate expressing confidence with its management.

But speakers at the occasion could not ignore the thorny issue and called upon the university leadership to shun tribalism in their operations and create a culture of dialogue.

Assistant Minister for Higher Education Science and Technology Kilemi Mwiria also called upon varsity administrators to promote democracy but at the same time eliminate a culture of impunity in the institutions.

Dr Mwiria said though students had a right to demand quality education, the culture of violence and impunity will not be taken lightly.

With reference to the students’ unrests that rocked Kenyatta University three months ago, Mwiria warned students who are fond of perpetuating violence that the job market would deal with them harshly.

"Violence portrays students badly in the eyes of potential employers making it difficult for you to get jobs in future," he warned.

A total of 1,110 candidates were conferred with degrees and diplomas.