Laikipia University announces phased reopening amid tensions following fatal protest

Laikipia University has officially announced a phased reopening starting this Sunday, with second- and fourth-year students set to return to campus first.

The university’s decision follows a period of unrest that led to its temporary closure earlier this week.

Stakeholders have expressed support for the university’s efforts, commending both the University Council and the Ministry of Education for their timely intervention in facilitating the reopening process.

This move is seen as essential for stabilizing the institution and helping it recover, especially given the disruption to admissions and student intake caused by its closure during a crucial application period.

A Much-Needed Opportunity for Recovery

The reopening of the university has been described as a critical step for Laikipia University’s recovery. Local education experts and stakeholders are particularly relieved, as the prolonged closure had created uncertainty, especially with the ongoing Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) course application process, which could have significantly impacted the university’s intake for the upcoming academic year.

Vice Chancellor Joseph K. Rotich speaking on the matter, saying, “As a responsible institution, we will take a one-month pause from our ongoing campaign to allow the University Council the adequate time needed to address the underlying issues.”

Rotich further emphasized that the university would support any positive developments, saying, “Should meaningful progress be made, we will be at the forefront in highlighting and amplifying these positive developments.”

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However, the Vice Chancellor was quick to point out that the university would not hesitate to continue addressing the pressing challenges if no tangible changes are seen. “We will continue to inform prospective students about the realities of student life here at Laikipia if we do not see substantial improvements,” he added. “For now, however, we wish the university community all the best during this transition.”

This comes after the university was forced to close earlier this week following student unrest triggered by a series of tragic events. On Friday last week, a first-year student, Hillary Vulimu, tragically passed away after slipping at the Subukia Escarpment.

Despite attempts by his friends to get emergency assistance from the university’s ambulance service, the reports notes that they were informed that the service was unavailable due to the Eid al-Fitr holidays. Vulimu later died in treatment at Nyahururu County and Referral Hospital.

The death sparked outrage among students, who expressed dissatisfaction with the university’s management and response to the emergency. On Monday evening, tensions escalated further when students, frustrated by what they perceived as poor management, took to the streets in protest.

Their demonstrations led to clashes with police, who responded with tear gas and force to disperse the crowds. One student was shot dead as several sustained gunshot wounds during the protests.

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University Leadership Responds to Crisis

The university had planned a meeting with the students on Monday to address their concerns and quell the growing unrest. However, the students refused to attend, opting instead to take their grievances to the streets. Anti-riot police officers were deployed as the situation escalated, and roadblocks were set up on the Nyahururu-Nakuru road.

In an official statement issued by the Director for Corporate Affairs, Roselyn Mulefu, the university confirmed that it was working closely with relevant authorities to address the situation and improve student welfare. “We continue to work closely with the relevant authorities and are enhancing our students’ welfare and engagement framework to prevent further incidents,” said Mulefu.

Despite the ongoing challenges, the phased reopening is seen as a beacon of hope, offering the university an opportunity to restore order and focus on rebuilding trust with its students and stakeholders.

A Critical Turning Point

As the university reopens its doors to students, many are hopeful that the leadership will be able to address the deep-rooted issues within the institution. The events of the past week have left many questions about the university’s management, and the upcoming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the leadership can make the necessary changes to ensure the safety and well-being of students going forward.

By KIMUTAI LANGAT