Moi University Vice-Chancellor Sent on Compulsory Leave as New Council Takes Charge
The decision follows concerns raised by the Council regarding financial constraints and governance issues at the institution.

Prof. Noah O. Midamba, the Chairman of the Moi University Council/Hubzmedia
The newly appointed Moi University Council has sent Vice-Chancellor Prof. Isaac S. Kosgey on an eight-month compulsory leave to clear his accumulated leave days, as part of efforts to enhance governance and accountability at the institution.
In a letter dated January 30, 2025, and signed by Prof. Noah O. Midamba, the Chairman of the Moi University Council, Prof. Kosgey was informed that he had accumulated leave days equivalent to eight months. The decision follows concerns raised by the Council regarding financial constraints and governance issues at the institution.
According to the letter, Moi University staff are entitled to 45 annual leave days as per the Employment Act (2007) and the Public Service Human Resource and Procedure Manual (2016). However, Prof. Kosgey had accumulated substantial leave, raising audit concerns. The Council, citing a directive from the Head of Public Service dated September 27, 2024, stated that unspent leave days could no longer be converted into cash and, therefore, must be utilized.
“As you are aware, the University is undergoing financial constraints, and the continuous accumulation of staff leave days exposes the institution to audit queries,” the letter read in part. “The University Council has unanimously resolved that you proceed on an eight-month leave and utilize all your accumulated leave days with immediate effect.”
Government Pledges Support for New Council
The Cabinet Secretary for Education, Julius Migosi, has reaffirmed the government’s support for the new Moi University Council, stating that the government will back all efforts to restore financial stability, governance, and academic excellence at the institution.
“We have confidence in the newly constituted Council, and the government will support any measures they undertake to enhance proper governance and management at Moi University,” said CS Migosi.
Moi University’s Ongoing Woes
Moi University, once a premier public institution, has in recent years faced financial distress, mismanagement concerns, and declining academic standards. The institution has struggled with unpaid staff salaries, stalled projects, and debt accumulation running into billions of shillings. In 2022, the university announced a restructuring plan, including staff layoffs and program rationalization, to address its financial crisis.
The university’s challenges have been exacerbated by frequent leadership wrangles, low student enrollment, and reduced government capitation. The new University Council is expected to spearhead reforms aimed at restoring the institution’s former glory.
Prof. Kosgey’s compulsory leave signals the beginning of a new chapter in Moi University’s governance, with the Council keen on enforcing accountability and transparency. It remains to be seen what further measures the new Council will implement to steer the university back on track.