Nyamira: Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Defence, Soipan Tuya, has officially launched the construction of Nyamira University College at Kiabonyoru Ward in Nyamira County. Presiding over the groundbreaking ceremony, CS Tuya affirmed that President William Ruto’s promise to ensure Nyamira gets its own university has been fulfilled, marking a significant milestone achieved in record time.
According to Kenya News Agency, CS Tuya highlighted the collaboration among stakeholders, including Kisii University Council, the Ministry of Education, Nyamira County Government, and the Kiabonyoru community, as a testament to the commitment to this project. She commended their persistence in pursuing an institution of higher learning for Nyamira, acknowledging their determination that has finally paid off.
CS Tuya assured residents that the Ministry of Defence would provide full technical support through the Kenya Defence Forces to ensure the project meets world-class standards. She emphasized that the KDF team is committed to delivering modern, high-quality structures so that Nyamira University College becomes operational as scheduled.
Calling the event a ‘historic moment,’ Tuya stated that the groundbreaking symbolized the realization of a shared vision to bring higher education closer to the people of Nyamira and the greater Gusii region. She explained that the establishment of Nyamira University College, a constituent college of Kisii University, will serve as a stepping stone for youth to achieve their dreams, foster unity, and spur development across the county.
CS Tuya detailed that the first phase of the project will involve constructing a multipurpose academic block with 16 lecture halls and administrative offices. Subsequent phases will deliver additional facilities totaling 13 blocks in line with the master plan, including academic blocks, administrative offices, a medical centre, catering units, hostels, sports facilities, and a guest house. This initiative aims to nurture the next generation of leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs while transforming Kiabonyoru into an urban hub.
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba expressed gratitude to President Ruto for allocating resources for the project, noting that the new institution will admit its first cohort of students in the next academic year. Kisii University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Nathan Ogechi, acknowledged the long and challenging process of establishing Nyamira University College and appreciated the support from stakeholders and professional bodies.
Nyamira Deputy Governor, Dr. James Gesami, representing the County Governor, pledged continued support from the county government, including allocating additional land for expansion and sustainability. The event was attended by Kisii University Council members, the Chancellor of Tharaka University Prof. Emeritus Ratemo Michieka, Vice Chancellors of Open University of Kenya and other institutions, Kenya’s Solicitor General Shadrack Mose, political leaders from the Gusii region, Nyamira County Executive Committee members, administrators, and local residents.