University leadership lauds completion of stalled project

Koitalel Samoei University leadership has commended the government for ensuring the main campus structure, which had stalled during the reign of the previous government, is built to completion, terming it a boost to the Nandi Hills community.

The management team led by Koitalel Samoei University principal Professor Winstone Akala noted that the long-awaited institution has now become a reality, underscoring the government’s commitment to supporting the education sector in the region.

Speaking during their preparations ahead of the official commissioning of the university structure by President William Samoei Ruto on Saturday, Professor Akala affirmed that in addition to the structure, the government had also injected money towards the building of 1,000 unit hostels that will accommodate a total of 10,000 students, thus ensuring no setbacks once learning commences.

The professor divulged that with the new structure that will serve as the main campus of Koitalel University in Nandi County, the institution has recorded an increase in student enrolment in the current Mosoriot Campus term, thus making it a great milestone for the institution.

The institution principle called upon the government to make the institution a niche for sports science, noting that Nandi being a region known for sports, the university management is looking forward to conducting extensive learning and research on sports science.

“This year we were lucky to admit 1700 students, bringing the population to slightly over 5300 students. This is really phenomenal growth. I want to make a passionate plea to the line ministry and the president that the niche learning area that the university wishes to do a lot of learning and research in is sports science,” divulged Professor Akala.

The principal further said that the new sports complex block that the institution is requesting will entail a sports gymnasium as well as an Olympic-standard swimming pool that will enhance sporting activities.

On his part, Koitalel Samoei University Chair Professor Josphat Kipkoech said that the construction of this structure had benefitted a number of youths as a form of employment, thus improving their source of livelihood.

“The construction of this structure has created employment for the surrounding community. 350 have been working at this project,” noted Kipkoech.

Nandi Kaburwo, council of elders chair Augustine Kisorio, lauded the government for such an initiative, noting that once operational it will go a long way in improving the economy of Nandi Hills town and benefit residents.

According to Professor Kipkoech, they were forced to hire 350 youths to work at the construction site due to the urgency of the project, this benefitting more residents.

Kisorio revealed that with this institution in Nandi Hills town, residents will be able to take courses by operating from the comfort of their homes, which will incur fewer expenses.

“This institution will contribute to the economy of Nandi Hills town. Residents will be able to pursue courses easily by operating from their homes,” pointed Kisorio.

By Ruth Mainye