EducationMasinde Muliro University of Science and Technology in Kakamega County has established a way of empowering students from poor backgrounds to pursue courses of their choice which has stimulated the increased population of students at the institution.
According to Vice Chancellor Prof. Solomon Shibairo, this year’s cycle (2026/2027) only, they have received at least 7586 students as compared to last year’s cycle where they had 6000 students, making the population at institution to be at over 24,000 saying it’s due to their continuous improvement in equipping students with specialised professions.However, Shibairo said as of today, they are offering 74 programmes at the institution.
“We are proud that the number of students is increasing in every cycle. This is because our institution is the best in the region in terms of shaping tomorrow’s leaders and innovators,” Shibairo
.The VC added that the increasing number of students, particularly from the western region and mostly from poor backgrounds, has prompted the institution to establish a support fund, paying fees for 150 students every year.He said the institution provides a waiver of about 50% tuition fee for most talented students and underprivileged. He said the institution provides for accommodation and other essentials that students require.
The institution also assists students in applying for government scholarships including HELB loans.He revealed that they also have a work study programme which provides employment opportunities to the needy students to help them meet education and living costs every year. At the moment, they have targeted at least 150 students from underprivileged families in 2026/2027 September intake.
“The institution has proved a record in assisting poor students from poor families. We apply for scholarships for them and give out essentials that are needed,” the VC said.
He also acknowledged the support from area leaders, noting that their contributions have made an impact. He said Shinyalu MP Fred supported 127 less fortunate students with bursaries amounting to Ksh 889,000.He applauded the efforts, saying they strengthen the institution’s efforts in boosting education not only in Kakamega County but also in the entire western region.
“The MP has supported our efforts to ensure students receive quality education.Through NG-CDF, he has given us funds that will encourage students,” he added.
Turning to investments, the VC revealed that President William Ruto is set to unveil 10,000 affordable housing units at the institution where 348 hostels with the capacity to accommodate 1224 students in the first batchHe said the housing units will ease student congestion, reduce costs and lower the risk of criminal incidents in the streets.
He assured prospective students that MMUST follows its own guiding principles, adding that they should not be apprehensive.Professor Christopher Ngecho from the institution echoed the VC’s sentiments, saying they are doing well. He revealed that, as the institution, they have managed to be the most preferred in the region.
Their reputation has attracted support from the government and private sponsors who have come to assist students and the institution.He revealed that currently, they have partnered with countries including Italy to improve innovations among students.
“MMUST has a national face; we are proud that investors and the government have decided to partner with us to mould students into various professionals,” Christopher added.