The National Intelligence and Research University (NIRU) has become the latest institution of higher learning to receive its charter giving it full autonomy to offer degree programmes.
NIRU has been a constituent college of the National Defence University (NDU-K) under the military before it was split.
Established in 2021, the college has been offering intelligence-related courses and research on complex security threats.
The award of the charter follows the approvals by the Commission for University of Education (CUE) which is mandated to inspect and accredit universities in the country.
The award of the charter, which is in line with section 24 of the Universities Act, Cap 210 according to President William Ruto who presided over the event will be of strategic national importance in areas of intelligence.
Also awarded the charter during the ceremony held at State House is the Islamic University of Kenya (ISK) situated in Kajiado.
“The granting of the charters will be of benefit to the advancement of university education in Kenya,” said Ruto. National Intelligence Service (NIS) Director General Noordin Haji is chairperson of the university council.
The chartering of the varsity is timely, as Kenya faces complex security challenges such as terrorism and cyber threats, Ruto said.
He said it will not only serve as a centre for learning but also a hub for research and innovation and the engine that will enable Kenya to remain a leader in the regional and global security agenda.
“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,” he stated.
He also encouraged the institution to expand its reach by admitting students from the Global South to foster a more diverse understanding of the security sector.
IUK on its part, Ruto said, will help shoulder the additional noble burden of serving as a beacon of solidarity, cohesion and peaceful coexistence in a world often divided by race, ethnicity and religion.
By bringing together diverse students and staff, the university will foster tolerance and produce professionals grounded in a strong ethical foundation whose work will reflect their values and commitment to social justice,” he noted.
The entry of the two institutions brings the number of chartered universities to 66 in the country.
