The West Pokot County Government is set to establish the first public university college in the County, Kapenguria University college, a constituent of Kisii University. The University will be constructed on 72.6 acres of land at Keringet area after the County assembly passed a bill supporting its construction and establishment. The University will help to unlock the untapped potential, foster regional integration as students from the area and other regions will be enrolled, starting May 2018.
During a meeting with the task force from the County Executive in collaboration with a technical team from Kisii University held at the institution, it was discussed and agreed that a Memorandum of Understanding will be signed soon.
The delegation led by Governor John Lonyangapuo said that the institution will promote the region’s reach, thus improve the economy, promote education and improve infrastructure. Lonyangapuo said presently, they’ve spent more than Kshs 300 million to set up the University.
The West Pokot Governor said the establishment of the institution is part of the County government’s plan that will act as an eyeopener to the pastoralists. He added that his government has prioritized education and has allocated bursaries to students, “We have given 3.2 million shillings to Kisii University for students’ bursaries from the County,” he said.
Kisii University Vice-Chancellor, Prof. John Akama welcomed the initiative noting that they will nurture the institution until it becomes a fully fledged University in accordance with the Universities Act 2012. He said the institution will offer a range of courses to unlock the potential residing in the semi-arid region. Prof. Akama urged youths in the area to embrace education, enrol in the institution, and shun banditry and cattle rustling in the process.
Kisii University Chairman University Council Dr. Ephraim Mukisila said the institution will help change the face of the County. “Many things can happen here and that’s why we need to have University and we want this to serve the arid and semi-arid areas,” he said.