Education CS And TVET Secretary Clash Over Key Appointment
In a surprising turn of events, a fierce dispute has erupted within the Kenyan Ministry of Education, pitting Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu against Dr. Esther Muoria, the Principal Secretary for Technical, Vocational Education and Training (TVET). This conflict revolves around a senior leadership position within the ministry, setting the stage for a high-stakes power struggle.
Machogu wasted no time asserting his authority by issuing a stern warning. In a letter dated September 1, 2023, he unequivocally declared that any disregard for the duly appointed Director of Technical Education, Dr. Meshack C. Opwora, would be met with appropriate action in line with the legal and regulatory framework. This warning was directed not only to government agency heads but also prominent figures in the education sector, including Dr. Muoria, Dr. Belio Kipsang, and Dr. Beatrice Inyangala.
Sources within the ministry suggest that Machogu’s stern warning stemmed from Dr. Muoria’s attempt to appoint another senior officer as the Acting Director of Technical Education, potentially sidelining Dr. Opwora. Dr. Muoria had previously appointed John Kiplagat Tuwei as the Acting Director of Vocational and Technical Education (DTE) on April 12.
Tensions escalated during a TVET meeting held on August 25, where Dr. Muoria introduced Tuwei as the Director for Technical Education, despite Dr. Opwora’s prior confirmation for the position.
In response to these developments, Dr. Muoria has remained tight-lipped, declining to comment on the matter, simply stating that she cannot provide reflections on a letter authored by her superior.
Also Read:Education CS in a Row With PS over TVET top Job
As the situation unfolds, Kenya’s education sector awaits further developments in this ongoing feud, which has the potential to impact the leadership and direction of TVET programs in the country.
This clash between high-ranking officials underscores the complexity and challenges faced by Kenya’s education system, highlighting the delicate balance of power and politics that can influence crucial decisions within the ministry. The consequences of this power struggle remain uncertain, but it is evident that the future of technical and vocational education in Kenya hangs in the balance as these tensions persist.
Education CS And TVET Secretary Clash Over Key Appointment
