Bomet University awarded full charter, becomes latest fully-fledged varsity

Bomet University has become the latest institution in Kenya to be awarded a full university charter, marking a historic milestone in the country’s higher education sector.

President William Ruto presided over the award in a ceremony held at State House on Wednesday.

The state ceremony, convened under Section 19 of the Universities Act, Chapter 210, formally recognised the university’s transition to full autonomy and academic excellence.

The university traces its origins to 2017, when it was established as a constituent college of Moi University under Legal Notice No. 145 of July 27, 2017.

Its creation was a strategic step toward realising the government’s policy goal of establishing at least one university in every county, broadening access to higher education for Kenyan youth.

Known as Kenya’s premier green university, Bomet University has woven environmental sustainability into its core mission.

The institution actively promotes conservation efforts through tree planting initiatives in partnership with the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) and Equity Bank.

These programs support the government’s tree growing and restoration agenda, positioning the university as a national leader in environmental stewardship.

The university currently caters to 8,777 students, a number that has steadily grown since its inception.

This population is supported by a dedicated team of 156 staff members, ensuring both academic and administrative excellence.

Bomet University operates from two campuses: its main campus in Bomet town and the Sigor School of Pure and Applied Sciences.

Bomet University offers a wide range of academic programs leading to certificates, diplomas, undergraduate, and postgraduate degrees.

These are delivered through four schools: the School of Education, the School of Business and Economics, the School of Pure and Applied Sciences, and the School of Arts and Social Sciences.

Over the years, students at Bomet University have achieved remarkable innovations that address everyday challenges in Kenya.

These include a smart shoe for the visually impaired, a modern sealing board, and a sprout inhibitor designed to improve food security.

Such breakthroughs demonstrate the university’s commitment to fostering creativity and practical solutions that benefit society.

Having fulfilled all the requirements for charter status under the Universities Act, the Commission for University Education recommended Bomet University for the award, the highest form of accreditation a university can receive in Kenya.

The charter grants the institution autonomy to govern its affairs, expand its programs, and further its mission in higher education.

“It has been quite a journey. From a small constituent college of Moi University in 2017 to now, a fully fledged University. Congratulations, BUC, on your upcoming University Charter Award Ceremony,” said Bomet Governor Hillary Barchok.

“You have nurtured scholars, impacted lives, transformed Bomet Town and as the only Green University in Sub-Saharan Africa, you have cut your niche and put Bomet County on the international map. We are proud of you.”

The award of the charter not only recognises Bomet University’s growth and academic achievements but also reinforces its role as a champion of sustainability and innovation.

As Kenya continues to expand access to quality higher education, Bomet University stands as a symbol of progress, opportunity, and environmental consciousness in the country’s university landscape.

Kenya has about 67 fully‑fledged accredited universities, meaning institutions that have been granted full charters and can operate independently.

These are divided roughly into 38 public universities and 29 private universities.

In addition, there are about 13 institutions at various stages of accreditation (not yet fully chartered).