Students at Bomet University College are demanding urgent repairs to a broken bridge and improvement of key infrastructure linking their residences to the campus to ascertain their safety.
They said that the bridge connecting the university to Chebirir Village where hundreds of students live has deteriorated, posing serious safety risks, adding that the situation worsens during the rainy season when the structure floods and becomes slippery.
“Crossing that bridge feels like gambling with your life,” said Linet Cherotich, a second-year Education student. “When it rains, it’s impossible to use it safely.”
Several students have reportedly fallen into the river in recent weeks, sparking protests led by the Student Union Council. The demonstrations prompted university administrators to intervene and call for dialogue with local authorities.
Another student Brian Kiptoo said the students are frustrated by what they describe as years of neglect.
“We have sent multiple appeals to both the county government and university management,” he said. “All we want is safe passage for our colleagues.”
Apart from the bridge, poor road conditions and lack of street lighting continue to affect movement to and from campus. Female students say they fear for their safety, especially after dark.
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“We avoid walking alone at night because there are no lights,” said Jesca Nyaboke, a first-year student. “It’s unsafe, but we have no alternative routes.”
Students have also raised concerns about the shortage of clean water, forcing many to fetch unsafe water from the Nyongores River. The students also revealed that due to these challenges, some landlords have taken advantage by increasing rent.
Bomet County officials have promised to repair the bridge and improve access roads, citing the growing student population. However, no timeline has been provided.
The university administration has remained largely silent on the accommodation crisis but indicated it is exploring long-term plans to build student hostels.
Students are calling for immediate action, saying the current situation endangers lives and disrupts learning.
By Philip Koech
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