Rongo University Closed Indefinitely After Students Cause Chaos

Rongo University in Migori County has been closed indefinitely after unrest broke out at the institution following a student election.

In a memo seen by Viral Tea signed by Deputy Vice-Chancellor Michael Ntabo, the university revealed that it had decided on the directive following deliberations by the University Senate. 

“Senate resolved that the university be closed indefinitely due to ongoing unrest as a result of student election,” the memo read in part. 

“All students are directed to vacate the University premises immediately.”

Rongo University students in protest on March 26, 2024. /OMWAMBAKE

Reports reaching our newsdesk indicated that after the election results were announced, two opposing teams clashed with each other, a matter that caused damage to school property.

This forced the Senate to convene for deliberations, leading to the closure of the campus for an indefinite period.

Students had lit bonfires in part of the school grounds with windows reportedly broken at the institution's main library.

Rongo University's administration was however able to quell the protests before they spiralled out of control, with no injury to staff or students reported.

It was reported that at the time of the closure of the institution, elections had been conducted and the duly elected candidates announced.

Rongo University has witnessed peaceful elections in the past through the delegate mode of voting. 

It is a leading University located in Migori County, 11 kilometers from Rongo Town, and 2.5 kilometers off the Rongo – Migori Highway. The University was awarded a Charter by former President Uhuru Kenyatta on October 7, 2016.

The Vision of the University is to be a world-class technology-driven University in learning and practice. The Mission is to provide quality and innovative higher education through teaching, research and community service.

The University is founded on the values of Integrity Professionalism Innovation Equity Social responsibility

"At Rongo University School of Education, we offer comprehensive and highly competitive teacher education programs at diploma, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels.

"With a thriving student population of 2,800, we take pride in being the most vibrant school at Rongo University," states the university on its website.

Entrance to Rongo University. /EDUCATION NEWS