Kibabii University Management led by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ipara Odeo visited Kopsiro division headquarter for a Consultative meeting with the Government officers led by the Deputy County Commissioner, Cheptais Sub-County, Mr. Wesley Koech, OGW, County Government of Bungoma officers led by the County Executive Committee Member for Lands, Urban Development and Physical Planning, Mr. Bramwel Murgor together with Professionals and opinion Leaders from Mt. Elgon Region led by Prof. Changeywo. Kibabii University expressed its request for allocation of fifty (50) acres of land with possibilities for expansion to enable it set up a University Campus which will eventuality develop to a full-fledged University. Members present were excited to have a University in the region and after much consultation and deliberations they unanimously agreed to allocate Kibabii University 50 acres of Divisional Headquarters land at Kopsiro.
The desire to establish a Campus in Mt. Elgon is informed by the fact that Mt. Elgon has been marginalized since independence and hence the presence of a University would contribute to and spur development in the area. The University will help grow the much needed trained and skilled human resource through its academic programmes and at the same time carry out mutually beneficial collaborative research with the local community in a number of areas including; agriculture, traditional medicine, bio-resource conservation among others for the benefit of the local community, County Government, University and the Country as a whole. These programmes will offer immediate employment, business opportunities and access to essential services for the local community.
The Vice Chancellor appreciated the generosity of the people of Mt. Elgon for approving the University’s request to be allocated 50 acres of land at Kopsiro, that it would give an opportunity for everyone to further their studies. He noted that (in his words) “Friday 28th February, 2020 is a very important date for Kibabii University. The University has good intentions for Kopsiro and the people of Mt. Elgon as a whole. The University being a source of knowledge and research will bring development including business and employment opportunities”. In addition, the VC promised that once the process is completed, the University would fence and construction would begin in the next financial year.
The decision to allocate the University land was further approved during the public participation held at Kopsiro Chief’s office on the same day, 28th February, 2020 in the afternoon.
Once planning and documentation is duly completed the land will officially be handed over to Kibabii University.
