Newly appointed University of Nairobi Chancellor Prof Patrick V. Verkooijen has said the challenges facing Kenya's education system have no quick fix.
Speaking during an interview with Citizen TV on Wednesday night, Prof Verkooijen said the challenges are inherent.
"We will get this right but not overnight. If it were that simple it would already be done. But there are some inherent challenges around the system," he said.
"What I have also noticed is that there is quite some energy around this education agenda. Both positive and negative vibes."
He said there is a common understanding in Kenya that the education agenda is critically important.
"From primary school to secondary and even higher education and even the transition into the job market There is a lot of effort in that sector today and that is right," he said.
Prof Verkooijen said in other countries particularly in the West, the understanding of the importance of education is dropping.
"But not here in Kenya. Here education is front and centre. As an academic, I think it is a good thing there is so many opposing views on things. Because in this dialectic debate, brighter and sharper ideas come forward," he said.
The new Chancellor started his inaugural visit to the faculties and different campuses of the institution this week.
Prof Verkooijen started his four-day tour of UoN's faculties and campuses from Monday till Thursday, February 1.
During the 4-day visit, the Chancellor engaged extensively with the University leadership seeking a comprehensive understanding of the university's academic and administrative structures as well as the ethos, values, and aspirations that guide the University
Prof Verkooijen was appointed as the new UoN Chancellor by President William Ruto on January 12 to replace Professor Amukowa Anangwe who was the Acting Chancellor.
Prof Verkooijen will serve in his new capacity for the next five years.