Landlords operating around Chuka University have been urged to improve the welfare, safety and living conditions of students by addressing key challenges affecting off-campus accommodation, including insecurity, poor waste management and unfair tenancy practices.
The call was made during a consultative meeting held at the Chuka University Students Centre, where student leaders, university management, landlords and security officials discussed measures to enhance the welfare and security of students residing outside the institution.
Student representatives raised concerns over inadequate street lighting, particularly along roads leading to the Africana Falls Hotel and Kurugucha Factory areas, saying poor lighting had contributed to rising cases of insecurity.
They also cited overcharging of electricity, poor waste collection services and double rent charges as some of the major challenges affecting students living in private hostels and rental houses.
Addressing the forum, Tharaka-Nithi County Commissioner David Gitonga urged landlords to form associations and appoint caretakers to improve coordination, communication and management of rental premises around the university.
He called for stronger collaboration between landlords and security agencies to enhance surveillance and improve the safety of students living off campus.
Gitonga cautioned landlords against unlawfully locking tenants out of their houses without following the legal eviction process and encouraged them to install security lights and closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras to deter crime and improve security.
He further advised landlords to report disputes involving students to the relevant authorities instead of resorting to confrontation or unlawful actions.
Speaking during the meeting, Chuka University Vice Chancellor Prof. Henry Mutembei emphasized the need to maintain a safe and conducive learning environment by fostering positive relationships between landlords and students.
He urged landlords to avoid arbitrary rent increases, noting that affordable and decent accommodation plays a critical role in supporting students’ academic success and overall well-being.
Mutembei disclosed that about 8,400 students were yet to report to the university and appealed to landlords to treat students with care, fairness and understanding, just as they would members of their own families.
Chuka University Head of Security Ibrahim Mulinge warned against violence in hostels and expressed concern over cases of theft and harassment targeting students, particularly by some boda boda operators.
He called for closer cooperation among the university administration, landlords, security agencies and the local community to strengthen security and ensure students enjoy a safe and supportive environment throughout their studies.
By Glory Kiende and Elizabeth Nzembi
