Universities Turn to Innovative Solutions to Overcome Financial Challenges
Kenyan universities have been facing financial constraints due to reduced government funding, prompting some institutions to adopt innovative ways to generate revenue.
One such institution is Meru University of Science and Technology, whose Vice Chancellor, Professor Romanus Odhiambo, stated that the university was forced to find alternative sources of income to survive during tough times.
Meru University put around 50 acres of land into agriculture, growing crops such as potatoes, beans, maize, and hay.
They also offer self-sponsored programmes ranging from certificates to PhD, which are a source of additional funds for the university. Professor Odhiambo also called upon the community to take advantage of these programmes.
Former Chuka University Vice Chancellor, Professor Erastus Njoka, who resigned to run for governor in Tharaka Nithi, also emphasized the need for universities to be innovative in generating income.
During his tenure, he invested in a commercial building, agriculture, and research to complement national government funds. Njoka established campuses at Maara, Igembe, and Tharaka which have since been elevated to universities.
Chuka University also sold bananas and tree seedlings from its nursery and had a 500-acre farm at Kairini with goats and cows. Njoka emphasized the importance of research projects, citing one project that earned the university KES 50 million.
He also called for universities to invest in manufacturing and innovation as it could be a significant source of revenue.
Overall, these innovative approaches are helping universities in Kenya overcome financial constraints and generate additional funds to pay staff and suppliers.
They also provide opportunities for the community to access education and contribute to the growth and development of the universities.
Universities Turn to Innovative Solutions to Overcome Financial Challenges
