- The government has officially gazetted Kerio Valley University College, paving the way for the establishment of the first university in Elgeyo Marakwet County.
- Governor Wisley Rotich says the institution is expected to admit its first cohort of students in September this year.
- The university college will have a presence in Tambach, Mokoro, Chebara ATC and Kimwarer, expanding access to higher education in the region.
The establishment of the first-ever university in Elgeyo Marakwet County is now in top gear following the gazettement of Kerio Valley University College (KVUC), marking a historic milestone for education in the region.
In a Gazette Notice dated June 18, 2026, the government, through the Ministry of Education, gave the green light for the establishment of the higher learning institution.
Governor Wisley Rotich told Education News that the university is expected to admit its first batch of students later this year, adding that several campuses have been earmarked across the county.
“With the gazettement complete, this now leads to the official opening of the University College in September this year. KVUC will start at Tambach and establish major campuses in strategic locations across the region, including Mokoro in Kerio Valley, Chebara Agricultural Training Centre (ATC) and Kimwarer,” said Rotich.
The governor expressed gratitude to the national government for approving the request.
“Our sincere appreciation goes to President William Samoei Ruto for this major milestone,” he said.
Years of planning
Rotich noted that the development is the culmination of efforts by a task force established by the county government in collaboration with the University of Eldoret.
The team had been working on the establishment of the institution, with the initial proposal focusing on the conversion of Tambach Teachers Training College into a university college.
“Special mention goes to the Kerio Valley University task force members and the mentoring University of Eldoret led by Vice Chancellor Prof. Cheruiyot and his team for guiding the establishment process,” the governor said.
He also thanked communities that donated land for the project in the identified locations where the university will have a significant presence.
Boost for education and economy
The opening of Kerio Valley University College is expected to significantly expand access to higher education for learners in Elgeyo Marakwet and neighbouring counties.
Education stakeholders believe the institution will also create employment opportunities, stimulate local economic activity and strengthen research and innovation in the region.
READ ALSO: Musingu’s Scorpions sting Kakamega High again to storm county football final
The gazettement marks a major step in the county’s long-standing quest to establish a university and position itself as a centre for higher learning and skills development.
By Philemon Kiprop
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
>>> Click here to stay ahead with the latest national news.
