Meru University of Science and Technology (MUST) has admitted the rising cases of insecurity in the vicinity of the institution, a matter which propelled students to demonstrate recently.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the learning institution acknowledged the demonstrations, which were sparked by recent incidents of insecurity, and assured students that their concerns were being taken seriously.
“As a university, the safety and well-being of our students and staff remain our highest priority. We regret the incidents that triggered the unrest and commend our students for voicing their concerns,” the statement read.
The management further outlined a series of measures aimed at addressing the situation, including strengthening collaboration with local law enforcement to boost patrols and surveillance around the university and expanding lighting within and around the campus, reviewing security checkpoints, and enhancing CCTV coverage.
The university has also stated that it will establish a joint security committee with student representatives, university security officers, and local administrators to promptly address security concerns and provide counselling and guidance for affected students while ensuring academic activities continue in a safe and supportive environment.
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The university urged calm and cooperation from all stakeholders as it works to strengthen security and restore normalcy.
“We remain committed to fostering a peaceful, secure, and supportive atmosphere that enables our students to pursue academic excellence without fear or disruption,” the management added.
This comes after the students staged demonstrations and blocked the Meru–Maua highway, protesting against rising insecurity and lack of street lights in residential areas near the institution.
The students also complained of frequent cases of attacks, muggings, assaults, and stabbing incidents at night while heading to their accommodations.
Police were forced to lob teargas canisters to disperse the students after they lit bonfires on the road and hurled stones at the officers.
The protest, organised by the Student Association of Meru University (SAMU), reflects growing frustration and insecurities affecting students. In a letter issued on Monday, SAMU informed the students about the planned demonstration.
“The SAMU has been deeply concerned about the escalating insecurity around our university environs, largely caused by the lack of streetlights and insufficient security measures. This situation has put many of our students at risk, especially during evening movements,” read the letter signed by the association’s Secretary General Cosmas Emerkwa and President Teddy Samuel.
“After several attempts to engage the relevant authorities, with no meaningful action taken, we have resolved to organise a peaceful demonstration to demand urgent intervention.”
By Juma Ndigo
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