Bomet University students protest over dangerous bridge

Learning at Bomet University was brought to a standstill yesterday as students staged a protest over the dilapidated state of a bridge connecting their hostels to the institution.

The protest, which lasted several hours, paralyzed academic activities and saw students block the route leading to the university in a bid to draw attention to what they described as a life-threatening hazard.

Carrying placards and chanting slogans, the students decried the poor condition of the bridge, expressing fears it could collapse at any moment.

“We risk our lives every day crossing this bridge. It’s a death trap, and yet no one seems to care,” said Betty Chelangat, one of the student leaders.

Joyline Chepkirui, who also spoke during the protest, criticized the university administration for failing to act despite repeated complaints.

“We have raised this issue over and over again, but nothing has been done. How can they allocate millions for infrastructure and ignore such a critical link?” she asked.

ALSO READ:

Meru University students demonstrate over rising insecurity cases

The students accused the university management of negligence, questioning how such a vital structure could be overlooked while funds are reportedly being channeled into other developments.

“It’s not just about infrastructure; it’s about our safety. If the bridge collapses, it will be on their hands,” added another student who joined the protest.

The students are now demanding the immediate upgrade of the bridge and have vowed to continue demonstrating until their concerns are addressed.

“We’re not going back to class until the bridge is fixed. We’re tired of empty promises,” the students declared in unison.

Efforts to get a comment from the university management were unsuccessful, as calls to officials went unanswered by the time of going to press.

By Kimutai Langat