University of Eldoret closed indefinitely

The University of Eldoret was shut down indefinitely on Wednesday following student riots over fee increments.The Vice Chancellor Teresia Akenga ordered students to leave by 2pm saying property of unknown value was destroyed during the protest,he also said that security was beefed up at the college located about five kilometres from town.

Anti-riot police were deployed to the university where students hurled stones at buildings and vehicles.

The decision to "slightly increase" accommodation, attachment and teaching practice charges involved all players, Akenya said.

She said accommodation charges were increased from Sh2,500 to Sh3,500 based on factors including power costs, and the teaching practice fee from Sh500 to Sh800.

“All the increments were done with involvement of all stakeholders including student leaders who were there two years ago," she told the Star on phone.

“We have all the documents duly signed by stakeholders who agreed on the changes and the university council and senate are aware of the details,” she said.

Akenga said the university council resolved that the fees would only apply to new students, and that first and second years had been complying.

“We have been implementing the increment for the last two years and we do not know why the students have now picked it as an issue. We have explained to them but they refuse to listen," she said.

Reference : www.the-star.co.ke