Trans Nzoia County Government has rolled out a roadmap for establishment of the first ever university in the region.
The establishment of the institution to be done in collaboration with Bells University of Technology from Nigeria will mark a significant step towards development and strengthening of higher education.
Speaking after leading deliberations with a higher-powered delegation from the Nigerian based university in Kitale, the Trans Nzoia County Assembly Speaker, Andrew Wanyonyi, reiterated the county government’s determination to realize an institution of higher learning in the region saying that it will help unlock numerous economic opportunities and benefits.
“This initiative arises from Governor Natembeya’s commitment to bring higher education closer to our people. A university will not only facilitate knowledge acquisition but also boost the county’s economy,” he said.
Challenging the county assembly to support realization of the initiative, Wanyonyi said the collaboration with Bells University has come at the right time the county government was putting in place measures to ensure the region competes effectively with the rest of the country.
Reflecting on the county’s lack of both public and private universities, Wanyonyi noted that multiple options were considered before settling on Bells University as a strategic partner.
County Executive Committee Member in charge of education and vocational training Janerose Mutama emphasized the urgency with which the dream has to be realized saying it’s long overdue.
Mutama revealed formation of a committee which has been tasked to identify the various legal and technical hurdles in Kenya and Nigeria with a view of finding solutions in a bid to ensure a seamless process.
“Our delegation, led by Speaker Wanyonyi visited Bells University last month and today we are privileged to host a team from Nigeria. Following fruitful deliberations, we have set up a team to explore possible ways of establishing a university in the committee.
The committee has among other things been tasked to develop a workable framework for the establishment of a higher institution of learning in Trans Nzoia,” she explained.
Leading the Nigerian delegation was Bells University Vice Chancellor Professor Jeremiah Oludele Ojediran who expressed delight for the partnership.
“We are pleased to collaborate with Trans Nzoia County to establish a university that will foster knowledge exchange and empower the local population. Education remains a key driver of development, and we are eager to support this initiative,” said Prof. Ojediran.
The Meeting was attended by the Trans Nzoia County Assembly Clerk Moses Lupao, Trans Nzoia County University taskforce chair Prof. Masibo Lumala, and Trans Nzoia County Chief Officer Education Kennedy Etia’ng Seme.
By Isaiah Nayika
