The Commission for University Education (CUE) has outlined plans to establish the Nyamira State University, ending a long-standing feud over its location.

A delegation of professors from CUE at the weekend visited Kiabonyoru Mixed High School, where the college will be situated, for a physical inspection and verification of a report from a taskforce that was to recommend the ideal location.

Constituent college

It was led by CUE chief executive Prof Mike Kuria and Kisii University Vice Chancellor Prof Nathan Ogechi and was hosted by North Mugirango MP Joash Nyamoko.

The proposed university will be will be started as a constituent college of Kisii University, Kuria said.

Initial funding

Following the visit, he said, CUE will write a report capturing its findings and recommendations that will inform the next course of action.

“As you know, there are procedures that are laid down for an institution like this to start. We are now up and running to ensure all the procedures are well undertaken before we declare the university as open and functional,” Kuria said.

Nyamoko, for his part, referred to President William Ruto’s previous visit to the area during which he announced an initial funding of Sh500 million for the project. “This means we must move fast and ensure the university project starts as soon as possible.”

Locals should be ready for the investment opportunities the university will bring once it is set up, Ogechi said.

The proposal for a university in Nyamira has sparked sharp divisions among local politicians.

West Mugirango MP Stephen Mogaka even moved to court to contest its planned location at Kiabonyoru High School.

The court has not pronounced itself on the matter.