National Intelligence & Research University: What Ruto Wants You To Know About It

President William Ruto on Tuesday, November 5 awarded a charter to the National Intelligence and Research University (NIRU) at State House, Nairobi.

This is a newly-established institution of higher learning and by awarding the charter, it now becomes the first Kenyan university owned and run by the National Intelligence Service (NIS).

During the awarding, Ruto stated that the university would perform two main functions in the country, but most importantly, it would train intelligence officers to equip and enhance their security skills.

Additionally, it would lead in terms of research in security matters, with President Ruto remarking that the university would give Kenya a competitive advantage in the region when it comes to security.

File image of the main office block of the National Intelligence and Research University. /NIRUC

"I expect the National Intelligence Research University to support Kenya’s digital economy ambitions by aligning its academic and research programs with Vision 2030, the Fourth Medium-Term Plan, and the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda - all of which emphasize the role of technology and research in national development," he remarked.

"By focusing on security as a global public good, the university will contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 16, which promotes peace, justice, and strong institutions."

Consequently, Ruto urged the institution to not only focus on Kenya but also open its doors to other students from developing countries.

"The importance of high standards in training our security sector professionals cannot be overstated," the President added.

"We expect the National Intelligence Research University to play a crucial role in equipping our intelligence officers to safeguard the nation and to intensify its focus on cutting-edge research and innovation in national security. I view this charter as both a commitment to academic excellence and a significant investment in our nation’s security and stability."

The institution will open its doors to those in pursuit of higher learning opportunities in its accredited courses in Nairobi. Additionally, it will be managed by a Board of Management, a Council, and a Vice-Chancellor (VC). Academician Doctor Christopher Chumba will see the running of the learning institution as its VC.

NIRU will oversee the running of other constituent colleges after being split from the National Defence University (NDU), which is directly linked to the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF). The NDU is mandated to conduct a preeminent course in national security and strategy. 

Key constituent colleges that will be under NIRU include the Kenya Military Academy based in Lanet, Nakuru, the Joint Command and Staff College, the International Peace and Support Training Center in Embakasi, and the Defence Forces Technical College.

Additionally, the institution will be chaired by the Director-General of NIS Noordin Haji, and will also oversee the management of the Centre for Security Studies as an additional constituent college.

Kenya has been on a path to revolutionize its security and intelligence operations through the establishment of key vital security installations and training for its security staff. Key among the steps include the setting up of a modern forensics laboratory at the Directorate of Criminal Investigations(DCI) headquarters along Kiambu Road, Nairobi.