Perception of Corporate Governance Practices of Public Universities in Kenya: the Case of University of Nairobi

Abstract

The study seeks to determine how corporate governance practices of public universities, as perceived by key stake holders impact on decision making and leadership process. Public universities are complex institutions and their stakeholders expectations are continuously changing and increasing in terms of quality of service and academic performance. It is also known that management reforms and leadership capability are continuously becoming critical in institutional capacity building. The paper is a case study based on the University of Nairobi. Qualitative data for the study targeted a sample size of 200 respondents, however only 500/0of this number were actually interviewed. As we later learnt, the timing may not have been quite right. It was then analyzed using mean scores, percentages and content analysis and organized in five main sections namely: key problems affecting the University of Nairobi; governance structure; leadership processes; decision making and the role of government. It was determined that poor governance structure-h.as resulted in bad leadership and bureaucratic decision making processes, which in turn has impacted negatively on the poor state of the university. The study recommends a review of the current governance structure with a view of improving the management of university affairs through improved decision making. There is also the need for building the capability of administrators around good leadership and management. Communication processes through out the institution also needs to be enhanced.