The University of Eldoret has issued a first-ever call to parents to attend an academic clinic week, which is aimed at an informed insight into the academic progress of their children. This move has attracted reactions from students and parents alike, thereby igniting a debate on what role parents play in higher education.
The Initiative
Purpose of the Academic Clinic
The University of Eldoret announced a week-long Academic Clinic from July 8 to July 12. Its Results Portal will have the academic results for 2023/2024 results and those for prior years available for this period. In addition, supplementary and special examinations are slated for July 29 through August 9, 2024. The university invited students who had queries with their results to meet respective deans and heads of departments to clarify one’s academic status.
Invitation to Parents
The university has also invited the parents who intended to know the progress of their children, hence setting tongues wagging. It is meant to bring about openness and transparency so that the parents can meet with the academic staff and learn about how their children perform.
Reactions from the Public
Supportive Views
Some parents and students have welcomed the initiative as very positive for ensuring transparency and accountability in the academic process.
- Gody Kinyanjui commented, “Postgraduate students should come with their spouse,” suggesting that the initiative could extend to all levels of education.
- Ogah B Obinah said, “Good move parents must see the results of their sons and daughters,” supporting the idea of parental involvement.
- Mustafa Waziri added, “Transparency and accountability though,” emphasizing the importance of the initiative.
Critical Responses
Reactions, however, were not uniformly positive. Netizens reacted in disbelief and asked how much such an initiative would be practical and relevant for higher education.
- Jeff Murua shared, “Mimi mzazi angekuja visiting day time ya campus angefaint tu. Let’s just say I was living better in school than my parents and all my family members,” highlighting potential discomfort for students whose campus life may differ significantly from their parents’ expectations.
- Cleophas Kè Graphicz questioned, “Are we really doing this in the 21st century? For heaven’s sake which campus does not have a functioning portal,” criticizing the need for physical presence when digital solutions are available.
- Mboto Ivan humorously advised, “Those living with boyfriends kindly relocate,” pointing to the personal complexities that such visits could entail.
Broader Context
Parental Involvement in Higher Education
The invitation has opened wider debate on the appropriateness of parental involvement in university education. Whereas it is necessary in primary and secondary education, it remains unclear with regards to higher education. Universities are classically viewed as environments for students to gain independence and self-responsibility—making the issue of parental involvement highly contentious.