President William Ruto during the Umma University in Kajiado/Photo courtesy

President William Ruto has commissioned Umma University in Kajiado County, located off Namanga Road, marking a major milestone in the expansion of higher education in Kenya.

As part of the commissioning, the Head of State unveiled the Dr Abdulrahman Al-Sumait Complex, a Ksh1.4 billion, 10-storey building designed to serve more than 10,000 students.

He also presided over the ground-breaking ceremony for the construction of the Umma University School of Engineering Phase III, a project expected to boost the training of engineers and innovators.

The President speaking during the event noted that the commissioning reflects the government’s broader reforms in the higher education sector.

He outlined measures already taken, including strengthened governance in universities, restructured financing and the introduction of the student-centred funding model. These reforms have reduced fees, restored financial stability, and expanded access to higher learning across the country.

According to the Head of State, the government’s investment in higher education is aimed at producing graduates who are skilled, ethical and innovative. He said the reforms are designed to prepare young people to create jobs, advance technology and tackle pressing challenges in society

The commissioning of Umma University and the development of new facilities position the institution at a better place to expand its enrolment and strengthen academic role in line with the country’s development agenda.