Blog

Higher Education

Higher education has experienced rapid expansion in the last 25 years and Kenya is now home to 22 public universities, 14 private universities, and 13 universities operating under a Letter of Interim Authority (awaiting a university charter). Raising standards in Kenyan schools has led to an increased demand for university places among young people. The highest-ranking institution is the University of Nairobi, the oldest and largest university in Kenya. English and Swahili are the principal languages of instruction and research in Kenyan higher education institutions.

Universities offer a two-tier system of degree programmes, with bachelor’s degrees taking around four to six years to complete and master’s degrees between one and two years. A PhD takes around three to five years to complete. Public universities are governed by the Commission for University Education (CUE), an agency of the Ministry of Education.

Admission to university in Kenya is through grades attained at secondary school and a fiercely competitive university entrance exam. Tuition fees at public institutions are around 139,000 KES (£791.19) to 501,500 KES (£2,854.54), depending on the course

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Kenya is the eighth highest on the African continent, however, it is almost 40% lower than the UK and the USA. Rent and utilities will take up most of an expat’s budget and extra costs such as paying for a driver and clean drinking water should be factored in. The capital Nairobi is the most expensive place to live, however, expats moving for a job may get help to cover initial costs from an employer. Food, transport, and eating out are all cheap when compared with many European nations.
Kenya has a mix of public and private healthcare, however, expats are advised to take out a comprehensive international insurance healthcare policy, which would usually be arranged by your employer in Kenya.

Housing

Kenya attracts many professional expats each year, particularly to Nairobi, where the areas of Karen, Lavington, and Westlands are famous for their large expat communities and range of international schools. Most expats choose to rent and there is a wide range of options available, including houses, apartments, and private complexes. Rents in Nairobi and Mombasa can be high compared to rural areas. However, it is common for employers to assist you in finding suitable accommodation and covering the costs, in line with your salary. The average rental price for a three-bed apartment in Nairobi is around 120,000 KES (£683) per month and around 67,000 KES (£381) in Mombasa.

Visas and Eligibility

All foreign nationals entering Kenya must have an eVisa, which can be applied for online. Visas are valid for a period of three months, after which it can be extended for a further three months. Those wishing to stay longer than six months should obtain a Foreign Nationals Certificate (Alien Card) and a work permit, the category of which will depend on the type of employment. Permits and Alien Cards can be applied for online through the Kenyan Department of Immigration Services and Foreign Nationals Portal and your employer is required to assist you in this process.

Working Practices

Working hours in Kenya are generally 9am to 4pm, Monday to Friday, although many people also work on Saturday mornings. By law, workers are not permitted to work more than 52 hours per week or eight hours per day. Employees are entitled to 21 days paid leave after 12 months continuous service. Kenya has 14 public and religious holidays, which incorporate multi-faith celebrations, as well as national celebrations such as Madaraka Day on the 1st of June, when Kenyans celebrate gaining independence.

Business Etiquette

Businesses are traditionally hierarchical in Kenya and although all opinions are welcomed, there is a prevalent top-down approach to decision-making. English is the main language of business, government and higher education and Kenyans will seamlessly switch to English if required.

Education and experience are revered in the Kenyan workplace so be mindful of your counterpart’s position in an organisation when meeting for the first time. Relationships are also important in Kenyan culture and this is reflected in the workplace. Most people will go out of their way to make visitors feel comfortable and welcomed. Indeed, Kenyan’s are known for having an indirect and polite communication style, so projecting a friendly and open demeanour will help you to gain trust and support.