'A distinguished scholar': Ruto leads tributes to education reformer Prof Raphael Munavu

Educationist Prof Raphael Munavu/HANDOUT

President William Ruto led the nation in mourning the death of former Moi University Vice Chancellor Prof Raphael Munavu, a distinguished scholar and public servant who passed away while receiving treatment at a city hospital.

Ruto described Munavu as a transformative figure whose work left a lasting imprint on the country’s education system and public service.

“We mourn the passing of Prof Raphael Munavu, a distinguished scholar and steadfast public servant, whose life’s work elevated the cause of education and national development,” President Ruto said in a statement. “His enduring commitment to learning and public service leaves a profound legacy that will continue to inspire generations.”

Munavu, whose career spanned more than 35 years, was widely respected for his leadership in academia and his influence in shaping policy.

He is best remembered in recent years for chairing the Presidential Working Party on Education Reforms, a task he was entrusted with in September 2022.

Ruto noted that under Munavu’s stewardship, the task force undertook extensive consultations across the country and produced recommendations aimed at reviewing the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) and aligning it with Kenya’s evolving socio-economic needs.

“In recognition of his leadership and experience, I appointed him to chair the Presidential Working Party on Education Reform, one of his final major public assignments,” Ruto said. “The team delivered thoughtful and forward-looking recommendations to review the Competency-Based Curriculum and align our education system to the evolving needs of our nation.”

Beyond education reforms, Munavu also served as chairperson of the Konza Technopolis board, where he played a key role in positioning the project as Africa’s “Silicon Savannah.”

“As we honour his legacy, we recommit ourselves to advancing his vision of an education system that is equitable, innovative, and responsive to the aspirations of our people,” the President added, extending condolences to the family, friends and the academic fraternity.

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua described Munavu as a “towering figure” who bridged academia and public policy.

“I have learnt of the passing of Professor Raphael Munavu with great sadness. At this difficult moment, I join the people of Kenya in mourning the loss of a distinguished scholar, a national icon,” Gachagua said.

“Prof Munavu was a progressive educationist who bridged academia and public policy in the service of humanity.”

He added that Munavu’s influence would be felt for generations, noting that Kenya had lost “a leader of rare intellect and exceptional character.”

Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba said the country had lost an exemplary scholar whose contributions significantly shaped the education sector.

“Through his leadership of the Presidential Working Party on Education Reform, he played a pivotal role in advancing Competency-Based Education and shaping a more robust and forward-looking education system,” Ogamba said.

Principal Secretary for Higher Education and Research, Beatrice Inyangala, described Munavu as “a towering figure in Kenya’s higher education sector” and an architect of policy whose work redefined the role of universities in national development.

Public Service and Human Capital Development PS Jane Imbunya also paid tribute, recalling her close collaboration with Munavu during the education reforms process.

“I honour his visionary leadership and invaluable contributions, particularly as Chair of the Presidential Working Party on Education Reform, where we worked closely together to strengthen the Competency-Based Education pathway,” she said.