Moi University Reshuffles Leadership as VC Kosgey Sent on Compulsory Leave

Eldoret, Kenya – Moi University has announced a major shake-up in its leadership, with Vice Chancellor Professor Isaac Kosgey being sent on compulsory leave for eight months. The decision, made by the University Council, is attributed to Kosgey’s accumulated leave days, which could not be converted into monetary compensation due to financial constraints.

 

In a statement released by Council Chairman, Professor Noah Midamba, the university clarified that the VC had not taken his 45-day annual leave, leading to a significant backlog of leave days.

 

> “Clause 10 of your employment contract provides for 45 working leave days per year. However, the University Council has established that you have accumulated leave days equivalent to eight months. The Council has therefore resolved that you proceed on leave immediately to utilize the accrued days,” the statement read.

 

 

 

During Kosgey’s absence, Professor Kiplagat Kotut will take over as acting Vice Chancellor.

 

Wider Management Changes Announced

 

Alongside Kosgey’s leave, the University Council has introduced further leadership changes, affecting key administrative roles:

 

Professor Isaac Kimenge, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic, Research, and Extension & Student Affairs), has proceeded on a one-year sabbatical leave. His role will be filled temporarily by Professor Kayemba Ungeti.

 

Professor Henry Kiriyamiti, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration, Planning, and Strategy), has also been placed on one-year sabbatical leave.

 

The university has suspended its Chief Finance Officer and legal officers, citing internal restructuring.

 

 

Government’s Intervention in Moi University’s Crisis

 

These changes come just days after Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba reshuffled the Moi University Council, revoking the appointments of five members and replacing them with new officials.

 

Through a Gazette Notice dated January 17, 2025, the CS removed Dr. Humphrey Kimani Njuguna, Prof. Clara Samiji Momanyi, Christopher Khaemba, Eusilah Jepkosgei Ngeny, and Susan Amlango Aletia from the council. Their replacements, who will serve for three years, include:

 

Prof. Noah Midamba (Council Chairperson)

 

Prof. Ronald Wasike

 

Dr. Mercy Nyambura Kanyara

 

Dr. Edward Sambili

 

Anne Weceke Makori

 

 

The restructuring is part of ongoing efforts to revive Moi University, which has faced financial turmoil, frequent staff strikes, and leadership challenges in recent years.

 

Calls for Leadership Overhaul Grow Louder

 

The leadership shake-up follows persistent calls for reform from key stakeholders, including the National Assembly’s Committee on Education, which has urged the government to completely overhaul Moi University’s management.

 

As the institution navigates this transition, the focus will be on whether the changes will help stabilize its operations and restore confidence among students, staff, and the broader education sector.