By E, KNA
Residents of Bomet Municipality and other investors have been advised to consider building hostel facilities in the area to accommodate the rising student population.
Bomet Acting County Commissioner Reuben Ratemo noted that the number of students enrolling in Bomet University College and Sot Technical institute was on the rise leading to an acute shortage of accommodation.
Speaking in Bomet, Ratemo observed that the student population in the two public institutions in Bomet central sub county totaled over 15,000, which has put pressure on existing accommodation facilities in both institutions.
The county commissioner said the situation had led to congestion, with some students being forced to live in unsuitable conditions, which may negatively affect their health and studies.
“I know some students who for lack of accommodation near their learning institutions have opted to stay as far as Kalplong or Kapkwen, several kilometers away from campus and this exposes them to unnecessary transport costs and other risks,” Ratemo remarked.
He therefore called upon landowners near the college to consider building hostels and eateries to not only provide accommodation to students, but also as a profitable investment.
While noting the possibility of financial strain on the landowners to build hostels, the county commissioner advised them to consider leasing the land to willing investors who can develop them.
He at the same time said that the security teams in the area were working around the clock to ensure the security of not only the students, but also residents.
