A former Member of Parliament, (MP) has joined students and education stakeholders in calling for urgent action to improve the dilapidated bridge and road linking Bomet University College to nearby hostels.
The Former Bomet Central MP Ronald Tonui, who played a key role in lobbying for the establishment of Bomet University College, urged both county and national governments to prioritize infrastructure upgrades around the institution to make students’ life better.
“Bomet University has transformed our county and created opportunities for our youth. It is only fair that students enjoy safe and reliable infrastructure as they pursue their studies,” he said.
Tonui, who is also KUPPET National Vice Treasurer, expressed concern over rising cases of insecurity in the area, particularly around poorly lit roads and bridges.
“Poor infrastructure and lack of lighting expose our students to muggings and other crimes. Security patrols must be stepped up immediately, and the relevant agencies must install proper streetlights and surveillance in high-risk areas,” Tonui said.
He further urged the Ministry of Roads, the Interior Ministry, the National Police Service, and the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) to work with the county government to rehabilitate access roads and footbridges, improve lighting, and deploy security officers where necessary.
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“We have invested heavily in this institution. We cannot afford to neglect the safety of our students. I am ready to work with current leaders and stakeholders to ensure our youth can learn without fear,” he added.
His remarks come at a time when the students have expressed frustration over the poor state of infrastructure they are forced to use daily, describing it as unsafe and unbefitting a modern university.
“It is disheartening to see the state of the road and bridge we have to cross. Authorities should act with speed,” said one student representative.
The university, established in 2016 as Kenya’s 31st public university, has been credited with transforming Bomet Town into a growing academic hub.
Its establishment has spurred economic activity in the region, including the growth of hostels, retail outlets, and support services catering to students and staff.
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At the same time, Bomet University College is moving ahead with an ambitious expansion plan that was agreed upon during its founding stages.
The plan envisions establishing satellite campuses across the county to improve access to higher education.
So far, the Chepalungu Campus has already been launched, marking the first phase of this expansion.
Officials and stakeholders now await the rollout of additional campuses, including Kiplokyi Campus in Bomet Central, Terek Campus in Konoin, Sotik Town Campus in Sotik, and Longisa Campus in Bomet East.
The local leaders have lauded the university’s expansion as a game-changer for the county but have emphasized the need to match this growth with infrastructure improvements.
“The growth of Bomet University is a dream realized for our people, but we must act with urgency to improve the roads and bridges around it,” added the former MP.
By Kimutai Langat
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