ALOYS MICHAEL: Is education degree enough to qualify someone for leadership?

Other factors such as humanity, strategic planning and service are fundamental in leadership.  

As we set the standard that must be met for an individual to be in a position of leadership, let's not concentrate so much on education qualification.  

It is good for our politicians and especially MPs and MCAs to have a certain level of education. This will help them interpret policies and probably provide remedies for issues at the national and counties level.

It doesn't make sense for poor Kenyans to educate their children who after graduation the only job they have is to look for a job while the officials elected aren't yet exposed to these life dynamics. 

The degree issue is a contested matter, in my opinion one doesn't have to be educated to lead well but understanding issues and leadership modus operandi are vital in the decision making process.

In modern society and in Kenya we have bosses and leaders. Leaders use the fallacy "we" while bosses use "I". Leaders believe in team work and individual and group progress. They demystify power and authority with their subjects or employees in organisations such that each feels equal and part of the team.

The late Kenyan investor and business man, Chris Kirubi was a leader. His life, success and his preponderance is a huge source of inspiration to other people including the youth. He led by example and people had to learn from him.

We need someone who will unite all tribes into a swahili and english speaking nation. Having one leader and similar national goals is critical especially now that negative ethnicity, corruption and homicides have divided this nation into something inimical to tell.

The politics of majority, self interest and constitutional reform such as BBI tend to benefit few at the expense of majority who are in the periphery.

Education can be used to ensure that women have their place of pride and that we vote in line with realistic manifestos and agenda not empty promises.  

Ethical considerations are key metrics in assessing good leadership. Aristotle says "I live in a society where what is logic is not always desired, but embracing moral virtues and code of ethics the society will differentiate good and bad."

Individual behaviour matters and politicians must instinctively model accepted behaviour standards. Aristotle's understanding is acutely relevant to Kenyan leaders who must have respect for the rule of law and human rights. One doesn't need to go to class, to be candid it should be in our very hearts.

Democracy presupposes that the electorate have the liberty and power to choose leaders of their choice. This is someone whom they see and feel can meet their wishes and aspirations.

I appeal to Kenyans and politicians not to use their wealth as a password to positions of authority. We are all infallible but great leaders are recognised in the manner in which they correct their mistake and dispense service to benefit all.

Aloys Michael is a student of communication and media technology at Maseno University