CUE begins process to establish Nyamira's first university

The Commission for University Education (CUE) has initiated the process of establishing the first-ever university in Nyamira, following President William Ruto's directive.

During an inspection of Kiabonyoru Boys High School—the proposed site for the university—CUE CEO Mike Kuria urged all stakeholders to support the initiative.

He likewise assured that once established, the university would provide quality education.

"The first thing is to ensure that there is a strong foundation for university education in Nyamira. Once completed, Kenyans from all parts of the country can enrol and access quality education," said Kuria.

The Commission's visit aimed to assess the suitability of Kiabonyoru as a location for the university, evaluate the availability of necessary facilities and ensure compliance with legal procedures.

This development comes just a week after 44 petitioners, led by West Mugirango MP Steve Mogaka, went to court seeking to halt the government's plans to establish the university at Kiabonyoru. 

Through their lawyer, Danstan Omari, the petitioners argue that the decision to establish the varsity should be left to the Commission for University Education (CUE).

"We have included the Attorney General in the suit since she has now assumed office. She should explain to President William Ruto and the Cabinet that they do not have the legal powers to determine where a university will be established. That is the mandate of CUE," said Omari.

The petitioners also want the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to investigate alleged mismanagement of funds over Ksh.100 million, which are said to have been allocated to set up a constituent campus of Eldoret University in Kiabonyoru.

"We have gone through the EACC Act and realised that there is sufficient evidence confirming misappropriation of the funds," stated Omari.