Ethnic standoffs in Eldoret, Moi varsities a bad image, says Ruto

Tribal disputes at Eldoret and Moi universities are painting public universities in bad light abroad, Deputy President William Ruto has said.

The DP said varsities should stop tribal contests and quarrels and instead focus on improving innovation and research.

"The wrangles in our universities should end. The Ministry of Education ought to lead in ensuring such incidents do not occur," he said.

Ruto was speaking at Rivatex East Africa Limited (REAL) in Eldoret after Uasin Gishu Governor Jackson Mandago raised concern over ongoing conflicts in the two institutions in the region.

The DP termed the wrangles as primitive and called on the public to respect institutions of higher learning.

"We are not interested in who did what or what tribe they are because such primitive talk is likely to bring the institution down.

"Those charged with running of the institutions should up their game so that such incidents are not witnessed, because it is bringing a bad image before our counterparts in major parts of the world," he reiterated.

Ruto directed the Education ministry to ensure universities deliver their mandate and lead in providing quality education.

A fortnight ago, Moi University's main campus was closed after students clashed over elections. The institution has so far resumed.

Similarly, University of Eldoret (UoE) students recently went on rampage, protesting against alleged fees increment by the management. The institution was consequently closed.

Nine managers at the institution were suspended for allegedly abetting the recent unrest.

West Pokot Senator John Lonyangapuo said the trouble bedeviling UoE was as a result of failure by the current management to co-ordinate learning.