President William Ruto has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transforming higher education in Kenya, pledging to nurture a new generation of skilled, ethical, and innovative graduates equipped to drive national development.
Speaking at Umma University in Kajiado County, where he commissioned the Sh1.4 billion Dr Abdulrahman Al-Sumait Complex, President Ruto said the government’s education reforms are already bearing fruit.
The 10-storey facility will accommodate more than 10,000 students and marks a milestone in expanding access to quality education.
“We are empowering institutions of higher learning to shape a new generation of graduates — skilled, ethical, and innovative — ready to create jobs, advance technology, and tackle the pressing challenges of our time,” the President said.
Dr Ruto noted that the government has strengthened governance in universities, restructured financing, and introduced the transformative Student-Centred Funding Model.
These reforms, he said, have safeguarded the financial sustainability of institutions, reduced fees, and opened access to thousands of learners across the country.
Alongside commissioning the new facility, the President also presided over the groundbreaking of Phase III of the Umma University School of Engineering, describing it as a critical step in equipping young Kenyans with tools to innovate, build, and lead in the industries of tomorrow.
“These bold reforms are about more than just finances; they are about restoring hope, expanding opportunity, and ensuring our youth can thrive in a knowledge-driven economy,” he added.
