University professor impresses vetting committee for UNESCO envoy job

Prof Peter Ngure (centre) takes an oath before the Parliamentary Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations on October 27, 2023. [Elvis Ogina, Standard]

Peter Ngure, the current Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Academic Affairs at St. Paul's University, showcased his qualifications before the Parliamentary Committee on defence, intelligence, and foreign relations as a permanent representative nominee for the UNESCO role in Paris.

A graduate of botany and zoology from Kenyatta University, Ngure wowed the committee with a comprehensive introduction, emphasizing his extensive academic and research experience.

He traced his journey from a high school teacher to his current position as an associate professor at the Technical University of Kenya and later St. Paul's University.

When asked why he believed he was the right choice, Ngure expressed his 32 years of preparation for the UNESCO role, grounded in his substantial academic background. He proudly stated his determination as an agile professor who doesn't accept failure.

He said his value in this role has been significantly shaped by his extensive contacts and networks developed over the years.

He also recommended the book "Half Time" to committee members and shared a personal story about taking a break at 50 years to rest and reflect.

During the vetting, his tenure as a board member at Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) came into focus. The committee inquired about allegations of conflict of interest within the board, to which Ngure clarified that the claims pertained to recruitment issues during his time as the human resources committee chair at KEMRI.

Ngure affirmed that no formal petition was filed during his tenure, but he acknowledged the trust issues Kemri had with funders, especially with Africa CDC. He claimed that during his time as a board member, they established a robust partnership policy that enhanced transparency and accountability.

Ngure's financial status was also scrutinized, with MPs asking him to provide a breakdown of his 40 million worth.

When questioned about his motivation to serve in a bureaucratic position in Paris, Ngure clarified that his role as Kenya's UNESCO envoy if approved wouldn't mean abandoning his country; he would be representing Kenya's interests. With his academic and research career, he felt equipped to understand the UNESCO landscape and bring significant value to the role.

On UNESCO's key pillars, Ngure expressed his familiarity with the organization's mandate.

He highlighted his plans to utilize his technical skills in education, science, culture, and research to further UNESCO's mission.

He emphasized his past involvement in influencing policies, including advocating for chaplains in schools in Kenya.

Ngure also noted the potential for Kenya to benefit from his global network in terms of education and research. He planned to leverage these connections to secure funding for various academic areas if allowed to serve as the Permanent Representative.

When confronted by Kinangop Legislator Kwenya Thuku about his ability to work within a team, Ngure refuted any allegations of being a dictator and expressed his commitment to collaboration and shared goals.