Kisii University has recently inaugurated a cutting-edge tuition block, equipped with 45 modern lecture halls. This multi-million tower, which also includes an ICT center, is designed to accommodate the needs of thousands of students at the institution.
The university is preparing to welcome at least 7,772 new students for the September intake of the 2024/25 Academic Year, having announced a total of 16,000 available slots. Among the new facilities are three lecture halls, each with a capacity for 300 students taking common units.
As part of its expansion efforts, the university plans to create additional lecture spaces by relocating its decades-old administration block, converting the existing offices into more than 15 lecture halls. Vice Chancellor Nathan Ogechi, who took office last year, highlighted that the university currently has 318 teaching staff, including 64 tutors, and a total of 635 staff members.
Several Associate Professors are expected to be promoted to full professors before September. The institution currently has three full professors and 14 associate professors across its main campus and three satellite campuses in Kericho, Migori, and Eldoret.
“We are focused on expanding the university and securing more funding by increasing the number of full professors who will lead research in various fields. We are also rolling out plans to support our associate professors,” said Prof Ogechi. He emphasized the importance of retaining top scholars through a comprehensive staff development plan.
“My goal is to transform this university into a world-class institution with top-notch programs. Despite the financial challenges facing universities globally, we are reviewing 30 degree programs to ensure their relevance and quality,” he added.
Prof Ogechi also noted that the construction of a 10,000-bed hostel block will be a significant milestone for the university. “I have assessed the needs of our university as well as other public universities,” he said, revealing that Kisii University has launched several initiatives to ensure practical training and student placements.
“We will continue to collaborate with local and international partners. Recently, the university approved a business plan to establish a health agreement with the University of Manchester. We are reorganizing ourselves in accordance with financial regulations, and no staff or student will be adversely affected during this process,” he concluded.
