Govt raises retirement age for University lecturers to 70

The Public Service Commission has raised the retirement age for professors and lecturers in public universities to 70 years, a policy move intended to retain experienced academics and improve higher education standards.

In a circular issued in March 2026, Public Service Commission Chief Executive Officer Paul Famba outlined retirement guidelines for academic, research and non-teaching staff in public universities and research institutions. The directive was addressed to Cabinet Secretaries, Principal Secretaries, chairs of university councils, vice chancellors and other key officials.

Professors and research professors, including associate professors on permanent and pensionable terms, will retire at 70 years. Senior lecturers, senior research fellows, lecturers and research fellows will retire at 65 years. Assistant lecturers, tutorial fellows and junior research fellows on contractual terms will retire at 60 years. The same applies to graduate assistants and research assistants.

Research scientists in public research institutions will retire at 65 years. This marks an increase from the previous 60-year retirement age for many staff. The policy allows universities such as the University of Nairobi to keep seasoned faculty members longer for better mentorship and research continuity.

Employees registered as persons with disabilities will receive extended retirement ages. Professors with disabilities will retire at 75 years while senior lecturers and equivalent will retire at 70 years. Assistant lecturers and contractual staff with disabilities will retire at 65 years.

Non-teaching staff registered as persons with disabilities will retire at 65 years in line with the Public Service Regulations. “However, non-teaching staff registered as persons with disability shall retire on attaining 65 years as provided in Regulation 70 (1) (b) of the Public Service Regulations,” Famba said.

This development comes at a time when public universities are expanding to meet growing student numbers. Retaining experienced lecturers can enhance teaching quality and institutional knowledge. It may also help curb brain drain as academics contribute for additional years.

Yet, institutions must plan for succession to open doors for young scholars. The guidelines align with efforts to strengthen Kenya’s education system under the Ministry of Education. The Public Service Commission aims to create a more effective workforce.

As universities implement the changes, the focus will be on balancing longevity of service with opportunities for new talent. The policy reflects a strategic approach to human resource management in academia, promising long-term benefits for Kenya’s knowledge economy.