Moi University Acting Vice-Chancellor Prof. Kiplagat Kotut has vowed to make bold decisions to restore the stability of the troubled institution.
Speaking during the launch of the university’s second phase of its renewable energy project, Prof. Kotut said the administration has identified the core challenges facing the institution and was prepared to make tough but necessary decisions.
“There are people who think Moi University is dying and in fact, some believe it died a long time ago. We have challenges, but the most important thing is that we have identified them and we have the solution to our issues,” he said.
The Vice-Chancellor acknowledged the controversial recent retrenchment of 900 staff members, saying it was one of the painful steps required to stabilise the university.
Among the institution’s key recovery strategies is the implementation of an ambitious solar energy project.
Prof. Kotut said the plan to establish a 30 MW solar power plant represents a long-term effort to cut costs and boost efficiency.
The second phase of the project, implemented by Afriwatt Engineering Ltd, involves the installation of a 51.7KW Solar PV Grid Tie Solution, at a cost of Ksh 4.2 million.
Once complete, the system is expected to increase energy savings from 11.12% to 32.3% and reduce reliance on the national power grid by up to 36.9%.
Moi University has in recent years grappled with serious financial constraints that have disrupted its operations with students bearing the brunt of the crisis.
“As a university, we have decided we are not going to wait for anybody to fix our problems. The process will be painful at some point. It will hurt a few of us, but if it is necessary to save all of us, then it is worthwhile,” Prof. Kotut said.
He underscored the importance of partnerships in driving the university’s recovery.
“We are going to utilise the power of partnerships to be able to achieve that which we require as a university.”
By Mike Kihaki
