Rongo University Shuts Down for 3rd Year Students After Violent Protests
In a dramatic turn of events, third-year students at Rongo University were instructed to leave the campus immediately following 24 hours of intense protests. The university’s Senate made this decision in an emergency meeting on Thursday, September 19, 2024, citing concerns for the safety of both university property and the broader student body.
The protests were sparked by an unexpected increase in school fees. Students had returned expecting to pay Ksh22,350 but were shocked when the amount was suddenly hiked to Ksh33,000. Outraged by the lack of prior notice, the students took to the streets in protest, leading to disruptions in academic activities.
A memo issued by the university, and circulated through the student portal, read: “Due to disturbances in the University in the last 24 hours, all third-year students are directed to vacate the university premises with immediate effect for the safety of university property, other students, staff, and community.”
The unrest at Rongo University reflects a broader wave of discontent sweeping across Kenya’s higher education institutions. Protests have been erupting at universities nationwide, mostly in response to the government’s controversial new funding model. This new system aims to overhaul how financial support is distributed to students by moving from block funding to individual student loans based on household income and scholarships.
Despite a town hall meeting held by the president and the formation of a committee to review the funding model, students continue to express frustration. Earlier in the week, students from the University of Nairobi issued a 14-day strike notice, calling for the reinstatement of the previous funding system.
As tensions escalate across the country, university administrations are grappling with balancing the need for financial reforms with ensuring the welfare and education of their students.
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Rongo University Shuts Down for 3rd Year Students After Violent Protests
