In a move aimed at advancing higher education in Nyandarua County, Salient Secondary School in Kaptein Town has officially closed to pave the way for Nyandarua University College.
The move even though endorsed by residents during a recent public forum, places over 400 secondary school students in limbo as the institution prepares to welcome its first university intake.
Nyandarua Governor Kiarie Badilisha, speaking at the forum, confirmed the school’s closure and assured that students would be relocated to nearby institutions. The university, currently operating from ATC Oljororok campus, is set to shift to the Salient site beginning next year. The inaugural batch of 300 university students is expected this September.
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“This marks a bold milestone for Nyandarua. The community has spoken clearly in support of this project,” said Governor Badilisha, emphasizing that the new university would alleviate the challenges of long-distance travel for local students pursuing higher education.
Nyandarua University College will be mentored by the University of Nairobi until it attains full autonomy. A master plan for the campus is already in place, with construction slated to begin on land previously occupied by the secondary school.
Support for the initiative was echoed by Ol Kalou MP David Kiaraho and Senator John Methu, who both urged residents to back the project and avoid politicizing the decision.
Methu assured that the learners’ transition had been carefully planned, while Kiaraho pledged NG-CDF funds to construct additional classrooms in alternative schools. Prof. John Kimenju will be the principal of the emerging university.
By Masaki Enock
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