On 5th November 2024, His Excellency President William Samoei Ruto awarded Charters to the Islamic University of Kenya and the National Intelligence Research University in a ceremony held at State House, Nairobi. This historic milestone was officiated following the recommendations by the Commission for University Education (CUE), setting a new course for university education in the country.

The Islamic University of Kenya, which becomes the country’s 28th private university, and the National Intelligence Research University, a specialized institution, now have the autonomy to operate as fully chartered universities. The latter joins the ranks of specialized degree-awarding institutions established under Section 24 of the Universities Act, joining the National Defence University of Kenya and the Open University of Kenya.

During his address, President Ruto stressed that the government’s education agenda goes beyond expansion; it is deeply committed to nurturing quality, accessibility, and relevance in university education.

The President declared that the “future of our children lies in education,” underscoring that university education should prepare young Kenyans to meet national and global challenges.

Dr. Ruto also highlighted the rigorous standards required for a university to be awarded a charter, insisting that the process is far from a mere formality. “Awarding a charter should symbolize excellence and the utmost commitment to academic integrity,” he stated.

His Excellency Dr. William Ruto (Second left) alongside the Chairman of National Intelligence and Research University Noordin Haji (Right) displays the University’s Logo during the award of Charter ceremony held at State House, Nairobi on 5th November 2024.

A significant focus of the President’s speech was the newly adopted student-centered funding model, which he hailed as transformative for the country’s university landscape. He explained that this model ensures support for needy students while securing financial stability for universities.

“I recently met with vice-chancellors who expressed appreciation for this model, especially as it has allowed them to pay lecturers on time and prevent financial strain. A number of universities were struggling, some even nearing bankruptcy, but the new approach has helped stabilize them,” he shared.

In addition, President Ruto reflected on the increased funding allocated to the education sector currently amounting to KShs 360 billion annually. He cited this investment as the rationale behind his decision to establish a task force aimed at identifying and addressing existing gaps within the education system.

The President also articulated his ambition for universities to act as hubs for innovation and job creation. He noted the critical role of digital transformation, innovation, and AI in driving the country’s economic agenda, and he urged the two newly chartered institutions to be at the forefront of these advancements.

His Excellency Dr. William Ruto (Second left) alongside the Chairman of Islamic University of Kenya Hon. Amb. Dr. Mohamed Mahat (Right) displays the University’s Logo during the award of Charter ceremony held at State House, Nairobi on 5th November 2024.

The Deputy President, Prof. Kithure Kindiki, congratulated the two universities and emphasized the importance of professional and ethical standards in faith-based institutions. He urged these institutions to ensure that their teaching staff meet high standards of competence and to align their programs with their respective faith values without fostering divisiveness.

Prof. Kindiki also cautioned against misrepresenting religious values, noting that such practices can contribute to societal discord.

CUE Chairman, Prof. Chacha Nyaigotti-Chacha, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to uphold the quality of university education in Kenya. He acknowledged that the CUE would continue to work diligently to ensure sustainability, quality assurance, and the alignment of higher education programs with national development goals.

This event, which brought together education stakeholders and government officials, marked a significant step in Kenya’s educational reforms, reinforcing the government’s dedication to fostering a robust and sustainable university system that meets the evolving needs of the nation.