Ruto defends current University funding model, says it’s based on student needs and ability

President William Ruto has defended the current University funding model noting that it is based on student needs and ability, ensuring fairness.

The head of state was speaking when he graced the 5th Graduation Ceremony at Uzima University in Kisumu County.

President slammed the previous university funding model, saying that many universities drifted towards insolvency since they were funded on average.

Ruto further urged the graduands to become practical dreamers, make their purpose clear and courage steadily.

President Ruto also revealed that Uzima University is on the verge of establishing an Oncology and hematology centre as it widens its partnerships with leading universities in cancer research.

He said specialist’s collaboration working hand in hand with partners to make the dream come true. He also urged local Universities to set their sights on relevance and serving society.

He said Kenyans for many years chose comfort over content. “The era of average and making peace with mediocrity is now behind us,” Ruto said.

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Uzima University, which specialises in health sciences and related disciplines, has positioned itself as a key contributor to the country’s healthcare workforce, especially in underserved regions.

Uzima University Vice-Chancellor (VC) Rev. Fr. Prof. Cosmas Rhagot K’Otienoh also noted that Uzima is now recognised in Africa as one of the best medical training institutions.

“We have developed Uzima University to a world class and leader among equals in sound medical management,” said Prof Raghot.

Established in 2012 to train medical professionals in the region, the institution began as a constituent college of the Catholic University of Eastern Africa before steadily growing into a centre of excellence in health sciences.

Founded by Archbishop Zacchaeus Okoth, the university was envisioned as a response to the need for quality medical training in the Great Lakes region, with a strong focus on ethics, service, and innovation. It officially opened its doors on August 27, 2012, admitting an initial cohort of 21 students and concentrating on medicine, surgery, and nursing.

Over the years, the institution expanded its academic offerings to include programmes in Microbiology, Clinical Medicine, and Community Health, strengthening its role in healthcare training and research.

A major milestone was reached on 8 May 2025, when President William Ruto awarded it a charter, elevating it to a fully-fledged private university specialising in health sciences.

Today, the university is widely recognised for producing morally upright, skilled, and innovative healthcare professionals, with a strong emphasis on research, community service, and improving healthcare delivery in resource-limited settings.

The President was flanked by Migori governor Dr Ochilo Ayacko, Kisumu Deputy governor Dr Mathews Owili, Rarieda MP Dr Otiende Amollo, Kisumu West MP Rosa Buyu, Kisumu central MP Dr Joshua Oron,Nyando MP Jared Okello, East counterpart, Shakeel Shabbir.. .

Others present were Vice-Chancellor (VC) of Uzima University Rev. Fr. Prof. Cosmas Rhagot K’Otienoh, DVC Finance and Administration Omulo Okal, Chancellor Prof Oyuko Mbeche, VC Father Cosmas, Education CS Julius Ogamba, and Beatrice Inyangala.

By Fredrick Odiero