Moi University administration has expressed willingness to engage in discussions with Kesses area residents in Eldoret where the main campus is situated.
This, the management says, is in a bid to enhance the relationship with the locals, following a recent demonstration where they advocated for leadership changes at the institution.
On Monday, September 27, protesters were seen calling for the removal of the current Vice Chancellor, Isaac Kosgey, citing alleged poor management and leadership at the university.
The demonstrators also acknowledged the institution’s former acting Vice Chancellor, Laban Ayiro, as the most effective leader Moi University has witnessed.
Speaking to reporters on Thursday, November 30, Senior lecturer Professor Masibo Lumala said that the institution’s administration was ready to engage in dialogue with the community, to address various concerns raised during the protests.
“We will definitely want to involve the community in the planning and celebration of Moi University at 40 next year. We wouldn’t want to have a scenario where the University has challenges with the local community,” Lumala said.
Lumala further stated that some of the concerns raised by residents had already been addressed.
“It is the University’s desire to see a happy vibrant and empowered community through the opportunities that are available which we are able to offer them,” he added.
Issues raised include allegations of alcohol and drug abuse within Moi University, with accusations that the current VC Kosgey has not adequately addressed these concerns.
“The Vice chancellor must go home. There is alcohol and drug abuse inside Moi University and the man in charge of leading the University cannot be bothered to snuff out the issue and we have heard reports that he is also a drunkard himself,” voiced a local.
