Alupe University has been challenged to become adventurous and engage in research projects that will improve science and technology in order to improve the lives of the local community.
Higher Education and Research PS Dr. Beatrice Inyangala, in a speech read on her behalf by the Chairperson of the Commission of University Education, Prof. Chacha Nyaigoti, said the National Research Fund and other research agencies are always ready to support the research agenda.
“I also take note that Alupe University has established linkages and partnerships locally and beyond our borders,” said Dr. Inyagala, adding that the initiative is expected to increase the current institution’s capacity in the future.
She urged the institution to continue working closely with the industries which are the major consumers of its products.
“It is only by doing this that you will be able to assess the value and efficiency of your products,” she said.
The PS at the same time expressed the government’s commitment to support the University to ensure that it achieves its mandate, adding that the institution should align its academic programmer and research priorities in line with the country’s Vision 2030 and the Bottom Up model as espoused by President Dr. William Ruto.
“The Kenyan government is keen on the growth of this institution and is committed to building of 2,000 houses at a cost of Sh2 billion and construction of a tuition block at a cost of Sh500 million,” she said, adding that Sh80 million had already been committed by the government towards the projects.
Dr. Inyangala further said that funds for other infrastructure development projects like tarmac roads and street lighting within the University are already in place, adding that the University is designed to be among the best in terms of infrastructure and human resource.
Prof. Chacha Nyaigoti on his part said that the government is not comfortable with 200,000 Master’s Degree holders that it has today, 3 million undergraduates, and less than 15,000 PHD graduates, hence the need to expand university education.
Prof. Nyagoti advised Vice Chancellors across the country to work closely with the Department of University Education in order to achieve most of their programmes.
Alupe University Chancellor Prof. Peter Barasa appreciated the local elected leaders for supporting the University.
Barasa thanked the government for its commitment to establish 2,000 hostels and a tuition block at the facility.
“We also thank the government, through Education CS Ezekiel Machogu for giving us Sh200 million to build 13 laboratories,” he said.
On his part, the Busia Deputy Governor Arthur Odera said that the County Government will invest more funds in Alupe Sub County hospital in order to increase the facility’s capacity and staff to give medical care to the community.
“We want to make sure that the X-ray, the mother and child health unit, sanitation, hand washing facilities are all in place”, he said.
Odera added that urged the National government to establish a police post at Alupe University to ensure the safety of both the staff and students at the institution.
More than 200 students were given undergraduate certificates in various fields during the University’s second graduation ceremony.
By Salome Alwanda and Victoria Magar
