South Eastern Kenya University( SEKU) Vice Chancellor Professor Geoffrey Muluvi has said that construction of SEKU Mwingi campus in Kanzoka area, Mwingi central is set to cost Sh350 million and is expected to take a duration of two years to be fully completed.
Speaking shortly after holding a consultative meeting with Mwingi professionals led by their chair Titus Kivaa, Prof Muluvi said the university council has underway plans to actualise the institution after it stalled several years ago.
In 2016, the Mwingi professionals donated a 15-acre land in the Kanzoka area, a few kilometres from Mwingi town for the construction of the institution.
However, the construction stalled. Now the University management in collaboration with Mwingi professionals has confirmed that the construction is set to continue and will be completed within two years.
“Kitui Governor Mr Julius Malombe has made a commitment during his inauguration that he will work with SEKU management and Mwingi professionals to ensure the project is completed,” said Muluvi.
“We have agreed, both levels of government have agreed to work together and also involve Mwingi professionals to ensure the campus meets the standards required by CUE,” he added.
Muluvi called for patience stating that discussions are already on top gear. “Before the end of this year, the tendering process for putting up a fence will be advertised,” he said. He agreed that more land will be needed in the future to develop the institution further.
Titus Kivaa, the Chair said putting up such a facility in the region that has no single university would highly contribute to economic growth of the area. “Besides bringing education closer to locals, the area will positively advance in creation of employment opportunities as well as growth of businesses,” he said.
Campbell Munyambu, the team coordinator urged leaders to lobby for the release of the Sh350 million for construction from the treasury.
“We urge our Party Leader, Stephen Kalonzo our MPs among other leaders to lobby for this project as it will be a game changer for Mwingi residents and its environs,” he said.
Mwingi Central Member of Parliament Gideon Mulyungi while speaking during an event, promised to push the national government to locate funds for the construction and completion of the campus stating that it will help create jobs and enhance development in Mwingi Sub County.
By Charles Matacho
