On Thursday, 8th May 2025, Uzima University reached a significant milestone in its institutional journey when His Excellency President William Ruto awarded it a Charter, officially elevating it to a fully-fledged private university. The event took place at State House in Nairobi.
The President commended the University for its deliberate and focused approach in the courses it offers, which have had a transformative impact on healthcare in the Western Kenya region. He acknowledged that while many institutions pursue rapid expansion through diverse academic offerings, Uzima University chose a different path, specializing exclusively in health education.
President Ruto praised this bold decision, noting that health and STEM-based programmes are among the most resource-intensive to establish, given the high cost of setting up laboratories and practical equipment for students. Despite these challenges, the University made a strategic choice to remain true to its mission in healthcare training.
“You didn’t chase expansion by offering every course imaginable. Instead, you focused on a niche that speaks directly to the healthcare needs of our people,” said the President. “It’s expensive to set up laboratories and practical learning equipment for health sciences, but you chose the hard path, and I commend you,” said the Head of State.
His Excellency the President (4th from right) presents the Uzima University Mace to the Council Chairman, CPA Nelson Otieno. Looking on are Education Cabinet Secretary Hon. Migos Ogamba (3rd left), Principal Secretary Dr. Beatrice Muganda (2nd left), CUE Board Chairman Prof. Chacha Nyaigotti-Chacha (furthest left), the new Chancellor Prof. Oyuko Mbeche (next to the President), and Vice-Chancellor Prof. Rev. Cosmas Rhagot (furthest right).
Recognising Uzima’s alignment with the government’s Universal Health Coverage agenda, President Ruto announced a government grant of Ksh100 million to support the University in strengthening its academic and practical training infrastructure.
He assured the University community and stakeholders that the government would stand with institutions like Uzima that demonstrate commitment to addressing national priorities through education.
The President paid glowing tribute to Archbishop Emeritus Zacchaeus Okoth, the University’s founder, for his vision, resilience, and unwavering efforts to establish an independent institution of higher learning dedicated to health sciences.
A photo of His Excellency President William Ruto with other dignitaries and members of the CUE Secretariat during the award of a charter to Uzima University at State House, Nairobi, on Thursday, 8th May 2025.
He also acknowledged former Prime Minister Raila Odinga for his consistent support and advocacy, which contributed to the establishment and growth of the institution in the Western Kenya region.
Speaking during the same occasion, the former Prime Minister described the award of the charter as a transformative moment for the University and the nation at large. He reflected on the evolution of Kenya’s higher education system, drawing parallels with his own experiences at the University of Nairobi in the 1970s, then the only constituent college of the University of East Africa.
From that single institution emerged a robust network of universities, both public and private, now playing a vital role in driving Kenya’s development. He reminded the audience that societies grow by investing in knowledge, and called for renewed commitment to building strong academic institutions.
Right Honourable Raila Odinga, Former Prime Minister, delivering his remarks during the award of a charter to Uzima University on Thursday, 8th May 2025.
The former Prime Minister also issued a powerful call to action by comparing Kenya’s development trajectory with that of South Korea.
“In 1963, both countries had similar economic indicators, yet today, South Korea is a global economic leader while Kenya still faces fundamental development challenges. He posed the question: “What did South Korea get right that we got wrong?”
Mr. Odinga challenged the nation to invest in research, innovation, and education as the path to transformation. His remarks echoed a message of hope and urgency stressing that Kenya has the potential to rise to global competitiveness if it gets its education and development equation right.
A section of dignitaries attending the Uzima University Charter Award Ceremony.
Other dignitaries present included Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o, MP Junet Mohammed, Education Cabinet Secretary Hon. Julius Migosi Ogamba, Principal Secretary for Higher Education Dr. Beatrice Inyangala, Commission for University Education (CUE) Board Chairman Prof. Chacha Nyaigotti-Chacha, CUE board members, Commission Secretary and CEO Prof. Mike Kuria, and members of the CUE Secretariat.
Cabinet Secretary Ogamba affirmed that Uzima University’s elevation reflects bold reforms undertaken by the Ministry to ensure quality university education across the board. He stressed that the government’s commitment to quality assurance and policy implementation remains firm.
Education Cabinet Secretary Hon. Migos Ogamba (4th from left) looks on as the President signs the Uzima University Charter at State House on Thursday, 8th May 2025.
Prof. Chacha Nyaigotti-Chacha noted that the granting of the charter followed a rigorous and comprehensive process of evaluation and compliance, guided by CUE’s standards. He commended the University for meeting the requirements and upholding academic excellence throughout its journey from a constituent college to a university with full autonomy.
Prof. Chacha Nyaigotti-Chacha, the Commission for University Education Chairman.
Prof. Chacha noted that the charter is not merely a legal instrument but a national endorsement of Uzima’s role in producing competent health professionals and advancing healthcare outcomes for Kenya and the region.
Written by Evelyn Okewo
Principal Corporate Communication Officer, CUE
University leaders and education experts from East Africa are meeting in Nairobi from 17th to 19th March, 2025 to discuss ways to improve and harmonize higher education in the region. The focus for the three-day forum is on accreditation, curriculum, certification, and recognizing qualifications across East African Community (EAC) countries.
This meeting follows the declaration made in 2017 that established the EAC as a Common Higher Education Area. Organized by the Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA), the event brings together vice-chancellors and experts from Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, and Sudan. Universities represented in the forum include University of Nairobi, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology, Pwani University, Islamic University of Kenya, United States International University-Africa, Murang’a University, Meru University, and Aga Khan University, among others.
Speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Education, the Secretary Administration, Dr. Fredrick Ndambuki emphasized that the forum aims to align higher education with EAC policies and treaties. Discussions will focus on whether universities are equipping graduates with the right skills, how competitive the region’s education is globally, and what challenges prevent student and staff mobility across borders.
EAC Vice-Chancellors, representatives, higher education experts, IUCEA Executive Secretary, Prof. Gaspard Banyankimbona (4th from left), Secretary Administration (MoE), Dr. Fredrick Ndambuki (5th from left), and the Commission for University Education CS/CEO, Prof. Mike Kuria (5th from right) attending the ongoing National Sensitization Forum on the EAC Common Higher Education Area in Nairobi from 17th to 19th March 2025.
One major challenge is the difference in tuition fees across countries, which makes education less accessible. The EAC Council of Ministers has called on IUCEA to harmonize tuition structures to promote regional integration. Other issues include maintaining education quality, strengthening regulations, and addressing fraudulent qualifications.
IUCEA Executive Secretary Prof. Gaspard Banyankimbona highlighted the role of higher education in regional integration.
Prof. Gaspard Banyankimbona, IUCEA Executive Secretary
“IUCEA has developed policies to improve teaching quality, standardize postgraduate studies, and promote academic exchange programs. Key initiatives include regional accreditation of academic programs and the EAC Student Mobility and Scholarship Scheme (EAC-SMS), which many universities have already joined”, Prof. Banyankimbona told the delegates.
To make higher education more accessible, Prof. Banyankimbona said that IUCEA is considering a model where students can pay tuition in local currencies. The possible inclusion of Somalia in the EAC is also opening new opportunities for higher education collaboration.
Prof. Mike Kuria, CS/CEO of the Commission for University Education (CUE), reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to the EAC Common Higher Education Area, first signed in 2017 by then-Deputy President, now President, Hon. William Ruto.
The Commission CEO encouraged universities to participate in EAC scholarship programs, joint research, and academic exchange initiatives.
Prof. Mike Kuria, Commission for University Education Secretary/CEO,
The meeting is expected to lead to concrete strategies to improve education quality, strengthen regional cooperation, and enhance the global competitiveness of East African universities. IUCEA thanked the Government of Kenya and participating universities for their support.
By Evelyn Okewo
Principal Corporate Communication Officer-CUE
Monday, 17th March,2025
March 19, 2025
President William Ruto has officially awarded a charter to Riara University, making it a fully accredited private university in Kenya. The ceremony took place at State House, Nairobi, and marked an important milestone in the country's higher education sector. This brings the total number of private chartered universities in Kenya to 29.
The event was attended by key figures, including the founders of Riara Group of Schools and Universities, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, officials from the Commission for University Education, university management, and staff.
President William Ruto praised the role of private institutions in transforming education in Kenya. He highlighted the inspiring journey of Riara University’s founders, Prof. Eddah Wacheke Gachukia and Mr. Daniel Gachukia, who started with a kindergarten of 20 learners and have now built a fully-fledged university focused on innovation and technology.
President William Ruto (far left) signs the Riara University Charter during a ceremony held at State House on 19th March 2025. He is flanked by the Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba (5th left), PS Dr. Beatrice Inyangala (4th left), CUE Board Chairman Prof. Chacha Nyaigotti-Chacha (3rd far left), Commission CEO Prof. Mike Kuria (2nd right) and Riara University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Robert Gateru (far right).
In recognition of their contribution to education, Mr. Daniel Gachukia was awarded the Elder of the Burning Spear, while Prof. Eddah Wacheke Gachukia also received a state honor.
President William Ruto (centre) and Riara University founders Prof. Daniel Gachukia and Prof. Eddah Wacheke Gachukia
Strengthening Higher Education
President Ruto emphasized that the award of a charter is a major step in expanding access to university education. He noted that in 1970, Kenya had only two universities, serving about 3,000 students. Today, there are 79 universities with over 570,000 students, including 150,000 in private institutions.
He urged universities to play a greater role in addressing unemployment by redefining their role beyond academic excellence to become hubs for innovation and job creation. He also called for curriculum reforms to equip graduates with the skills needed to compete in the global job market.
Financial Stability and University Reforms
The President acknowledged financial challenges in public universities, revealing that by the end of 2022, the institutions had accumulated debts exceeding KSh.120 billion, with 23 universities struggling financially. He assured that the government has implemented measures to improve governance, diversify funding, and cut costs to stabilize the sector.
Private Sector’s Role in Job Creation
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga stressed the need to create opportunities for university graduates, given that the public sector cannot absorb all of them. He called for the expansion of the private sector to accommodate more graduates and boost employment.
Commission Secretary/CEO Prof. Mike Kuria
Ensuring Quality Education
Education Cabinet Secretary Hon. Julius Migos Ogamba stated that the Ministry is working on internationalizing Kenyan universities to enhance their global competitiveness, as outlined in the Commission for University Education’s Strategic Plan 2024-2028.
Commission for University Education Board Chairman, Prof. Chacha Nyaigotti Chacha, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to ensuring that only accredited institutions offer degrees. He highlighted ongoing collaborations with security agencies to eliminate illegal universities and fake degree programs, which pose a threat to the integrity of Kenya’s education system.
President William Ruto, Commission board members, management, and staff during the awarding of the Riara University charter at State House, Nairobi on 19th March, 2025.
Prof. Chacha noted that the award of the charter is a significant achievement for Riara University and a boost to the country’s higher education sector.
By Evelyn Okewo
Principal Corporate Communications Officer-Commission for University Education
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University leaders and education experts from East Africa met in Nairobi from 17th to 19th March, 2025 to discuss ways to improve and harmonize higher education in the region. The focus of the three-day forum was on accreditation, curriculum, certification, and recognition of qualifications across East African Community (EAC) countries.
This meeting follows the declaration made in 2017 that established the EAC as a Common Higher Education Area. Organized by the Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA), the event brought together vice-chancellors and experts from Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, and Sudan. Universities represented in the forum included University of Nairobi, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology, Pwani University, Islamic University of Kenya, United States International University-Africa, Murang’a University of Technology, Meru University of Science and Technology, and The Aga Khan University, among others.
Speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Education, the Secretary Administration, Dr. Fredrick Ndambuki emphasized that the forum aimed to align higher education with EAC policies and treaties. Discussions focused on whether universities are equipping graduates with the right skills, how competitive the region’s education is globally, and what challenges prevent student and staff mobility across borders.
EAC Vice-Chancellors, representatives, higher education experts, IUCEA Executive Secretary, Prof. Gaspard Banyankimbona (4th from left), Secretary Administration (MoE), Dr. Fredrick Ndambuki (5th from left), and the Commission for University Education CS/CEO, Prof. Mike Kuria (5th from right) attending the National Sensitization Forum on the EAC Common Higher Education Area in Nairobi from 17th to 19th March 2025.
One major challenge is the difference in tuition fees across countries, which makes education less accessible. The EAC Council of Ministers called on IUCEA to harmonize tuition structures to promote regional integration. Other issues include maintaining education quality, strengthening regulations, and addressing fraudulent qualifications.
IUCEA Executive Secretary Prof. Gaspard Banyankimbona highlighted the role of higher education in regional integration.
Prof. Gaspard Banyankimbona, IUCEA Executive Secretary
“IUCEA has developed policies to improve teaching quality, standardize postgraduate studies, and promote academic exchange programs. Key initiatives include regional accreditation of academic programs and the EAC Student Mobility and Scholarship Scheme (EAC-SMS), which many universities have already joined”, Prof. Banyankimbona told the delegates.
To make higher education more accessible, Prof. Banyankimbona said that IUCEA is considering a model where students can pay tuition in local currencies. The possible inclusion of Somalia in the EAC is also opening new opportunities for higher education collaboration.
Prof. Mike Kuria, CS/CEO of the Commission for University Education (CUE), reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to the EAC Common Higher Education Area, first signed in 2017 by then-Deputy President, now President, Hon. William Ruto.
The Commission CEO encouraged universities to participate in EAC scholarship programs, joint research, and academic exchange initiatives.
Prof. Mike Kuria, Commission for University Education Secretary/CEO
The meeting is expected to lead to concrete strategies to improve education quality, strengthen regional cooperation, and enhance the global competitiveness of East African universities. IUCEA thanked the Government of Kenya and participating universities for their support.
By Evelyn Okewo
Principal Corporate Communication Officer-CUE
Monday, 17th March,2025
On November 13, 2024, the Commission for University Education (CUE) unveiled its Strategic Plan for 2024–2028 at the Pride Inn Azure Hotel in Nairobi. This five-year plan was presented by the Cabinet Secretary for Education, Hon. Julius Migosi Ogamba, who highlighted its transformative role in shaping Kenya's university education sector to meet national development goals.
In his speech, Hon. Ogamba emphasized that the plan aligns with key national policies, including Sessional Paper No. 1 of 2019, the draft Sessional Paper of 2024, and the Presidential Working Party on Education Reforms (PWPER) Report. He reaffirmed that the Strategic Plan would position universities as central players in driving research, innovation, and skills development—critical for Kenya’s growth and the achievement of Vision 2030. The focus is on equipping universities to cultivate skilled professionals and forward-thinking leaders to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world. Hon. Ogamba stressed that the plan also aims to ensure universities produce industry-ready graduates with critical problem-solving skills, capable of contributing to the Kenyan economy and beyond.
The Cabinet Secretary underscored the importance of Competency-Based Education (CBE) in preparing graduates for the modern job market, a key feature of the Strategic Plan. He also emphasized the role of data-driven decision-making, which will guide curriculum design and resource allocation to ensure institutions remain responsive to market needs. Furthermore, Hon. Ogamba called for stronger collaborations with both the public and private sectors to fund research and strengthen university-industry linkages, ensuring that Kenya’s universities remain competitive on the global stage
(Cabinet Secretary for Education, Hon. Julius Migosi Ogamba delivers his remarks during the launch of our strategic plan)
Prof. Chacha Nyaigotti-Chacha, the Chairman of CUE, also addressed the launch event, emphasizing the importance of quality, relevance, and sustainability in university education. He called for active collaboration to achieve CUE’s vision of a world-class education system that meets both national and global demands. The Chairman highlighted CUE’s commitment to institutional capacity building, promoting governance, accountability, and resource allocation to help universities thrive in a competitive global environment.
(Prof. Chacha Nyaigotti-Chacha, the Chairman of CUE delivers his remarks during the launch of our strategic plan)
Commissioner CPA Vincent Nyabiosi shared the Commission’s bold vision for elevating university education in Kenya, focusing on Quality & Relevance, Data-Driven Decisions, CBE Alignment, Diversity & Inclusivity, and Institutional Capacity. He outlined the Commission's strategy to promote these pillars, which are integral to the plan's success.
(Commissioner CPA Vincent Nyabiosi delivers his remarks during the launch of our strategic plan)
The launch event was also attended by various dignitaries, including Vice-Chancellors, CEOs of higher education agencies, and representatives from professional bodies. The strong sector-wide support underscores the significance of the Strategic Plan in advancing Kenya’s higher education agenda.
CUE’s CEO, Prof. Mike Kuria, highlighted the plan’s data-centric approach to improving academic programs and student outcomes, ensuring curricula remain relevant to the dynamic job market. He also emphasized the Commission's commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusivity, ensuring that economic, social, and geographical barriers do not prevent access to quality university education. Prof. Kuria discussed how the plan would promote digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and technology-based curricula to equip Kenyan graduates with the skills needed for the country’s growing digital economy.
(CUE’s CEO, Prof. Mike Kuria delivers his remarks during the launch of our strategic plan)
In conclusion, the CUE Strategic Plan for 2024–2028 aims to build a resilient, inclusive, and globally competitive higher education system. By embracing innovation, promoting partnerships, and ensuring a focus on competencies and market-driven education, the plan paves the way for Kenya’s universities to play a critical role in the nation’s socio-economic development and global standing.
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