Specialise in core areas of strength, Ruto to universities

Kenyan universities should specialise in core areas of academic strength to enhance their competitive advantage, President William Ruto has said.

By so doing, the President said each university will nurture certain disciplines and curve out a niche that will allow them to thrive in the modern world.

“There is a temptation in our institutions of higher learning to do too many courses and end up being a jack of all trades and a master of none,” he said at the inaugural graduation ceremony of Tangaza University in Nairobi on Friday.

Previously an affiliate of Catholic University, Tangaza University was awarded a charter by President Ruto in May 2024.

The President said students in private universities are free to apply for loans provided in the new university education funding model.

He said the few challenges facing the university model are being ironed out, adding that it would ensure all students who qualify will not miss a chance for higher education.

He urged the graduands to use the skills they have acquired at the university to help solve the myriad challenges of our times.

“Resources are limited and opportunities are few. This, therefore, demands visionary leadership that can inspire and coordinate effective responses.

"Now, more than ever, the world needs ethically grounded leaders who serve boldly, work tirelessly and embrace accountability,” he said.

President Ruto commended the university’s policy of promoting diversity and inclusivity, saying it would foster tolerance and solidarity.

He called on the institution to help train clergy from other denominations to increase the number of qualified clerics.

“I want to ask Tangaza to help train clergy for other churches so that our Christianity is founded on solid understanding of the word of God,” he said.