New Tharaka varsity to admit 400 students

By John Majau
Tharaka University College is set to admit 400 new students from all 47 counties beginning 29th August this year.
The constituent college of Chuka University is working to ensure that everything goes as per the plans, with contractors working round the clock to complete construction of modern hostels to accommodate the expected learners. The new developments have turned a boon to area residents who have gotten job opportunities.
Tharaka University College founding Principal, Professor Peter Muriungi said the establishment of the pioneer university in the entire Tharaka region will transform the area by spurring developments, enhance national cohesion and nationalism since learners will come from all parts of the country.
The institution is expected to become the 36th university in Kenya once it is elevated to a fully-fledged university.
Speaking at his office, Prof Muriungi said the constituent college is strategically placed and has a wider students’ catchment area of Tharaka-Nithi, Meru and Embu counties among other regions.
Currently, the institution has a population of 300 students in five departments undertaking various courses from certificate level up to PHD level. It has seven students in PHD programmes.
“We expect the new students this August to Early September this year. Their coming will also fuel the growth of businesses within this area,” said the founding Principal.
The region is readying for the new developments as banks and hotels are set to open branches in the area. The area around the university is also set to grow to a big metropolis.
Already Boda Boda riders are running booming business transporting students, parents and other education stakeholders to and from the institution.
The land prices around the college have also shot up to unprecedented levels as hostels demand go up.
“The leaders tasked with making the university dream come true considered an area with adequate land. To establish a university a minimum of mandatory 50 hectares of land is required and only Gatunga Secondary School had legally required land,” said the Principal.
Since its establishment, Tharaka University College has been well supported by the local community and leaders.
Prof. Muriungi said the institution is receiving immense support from Chuka University through the Vice Chancellor Prof. Erastus Njoka.
It is expected to provide solutions to challenges facing area residents such as lack of enough water for domestic use and irrigation.
Tharaka is a fertile and productive area and has many unexploited mineral deposits.
The university will turn around the economy of the area by spearheading mineral exploration and advise the Government on mining.
“In future we will concentrate on dry area farming. Tharaka region is a dry area and all we need is to partner with Chuka University to transform the area by equipping our people with knowledge, skills and the facilities.