President William Ruto granted charters to the National Intelligence Research University and the Islamic University of Kenya, bringing the total number of universities in the country to 66.
Speaking during the event at the State House, President Ruto emphasized that establishing these institutions represents a commitment to promoting high-quality education, innovation, and research that will benefit Kenya's socioeconomic development.
The Head of State encouraged both universities to be beacons of academic excellence and to contribute to Kenya's transformation by addressing critical issues such as youth unemployment and urbanization.
“These charters are not only recognition but also a commitment to societal advancement through high-quality research and innovation.”
With nearly 600,000 students now enrolled across 79 universities in Kenya, the government is focused on strengthening academic standards.
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Further, he called upon the Commission for University Education (CUE) to work diligently in elevating other institutions to charter status, ensuring that high standards in education are met and maintained.
The Islamic University of Kenya is expected to instill inclusivity and ethical values in its students.
President Ruto emphasized the university's mission to produce graduates who value social justice and unity.
Establishing the National Intelligence Research University (NIRU) is timely given Kenya's complex security challenges, including terrorism and cyber threats.
President Ruto emphasized the university's role in providing intelligence officers with the skills they need to protect national security, noting that the university is expected to drive cutting-edge research and innovation in the sector.
The President stated that NIRU's focus would also be consistent with Kenya's Vision 2030 and the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda, which emphasize the importance of technology and research in national development.
The university will support Kenya's digital economy while also contributing to global peace and security through programmes aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 16, which promotes peace, justice, and strong institutions.
