Moi University Acting Vice-Chancellor Prof. Kiplagat Kotut has reassured the public that the institution is not on the verge of collapse, but is instead implementing bold and strategic measures to resolve its challenges and restore stability.
Speaking during the launch of the university’s second phase of its renewable energy project, Prof. Kotut emphasized the administration’s commitment to identifying and solving the root causes of the university’s troubles. “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.
One of the most controversial yet significant steps has been the retrenchment of 900 staff members. While acknowledging the pain this decision caused, Prof. Kotut maintained that such actions were essential to stabilizing the university’s finances and ensuring long-term sustainability.
Central to Moi University’s recovery strategy is the adoption of renewable energy. The second phase of its solar energy project, undertaken 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 completed, the project is expected to boost energy savings from 11.12% to 32.3% and reduce the institution’s reliance on the national power grid by up to 36.9%.
Prof. Kotut highlighted that the plan to establish a 30 MW solar power plant is not only a cost-cutting measure but also a forward-looking initiative aimed at enhancing the university’s efficiency and sustainability.
Moi University has faced serious financial constraints in recent years, severely affecting its operations and student services. However, the Vice-Chancellor expressed confidence that through tough decisions and strategic partnerships, the university is on a path to recovery.
“We are going to utilise the power of partnerships to be able to achieve that which we require as a university,” Prof. Kotut affirmed. “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.”
With a renewed focus on innovation and sustainability, Moi University is determined to reclaim its place as a leading institution of higher learning in Kenya.
