Uhuru challenges KU to offer oil, gas courses to meet demand

President Uhuru Kenyatta with Education Cabinet Secretary Joseph Kaimenyi (second left), Kenyatta University Chancellor Dr Benson Wairegi (left), KU Vice-Chancellor Prof Olive Mugenda and University Council Chairman Prof Ratemo Michieka during the official opening of the Central Administration Complex and Graduate School on Wednesday. [PHOTO: JOHN MUCHUCHA/STANDARD]

President Uhuru Kenyatta has challenged Kenyatta University to start programmes in petroleum and gas to meet the country’s demand following recent oil discoveries in Turkana and Lamu counties.

Uhuru said building human capital was a critical pillar in enhancing socio-economic activities and spurring growth and development.

“We appreciate the work you are doing and the challenge is you can introduce petroleum and gas courses since oil has been discovered and when the work starts we should have enough human power,” he said.

Uhuru made the remarks during the official opening of the KU Central Administration complex and Graduate School at the institution yesterday.

“We will remain largely underperforming and cannot achieve economic transformation if we don’t re-dedicate ourselves and put our knowledge to tangible use,” he said.

While touring KU’s infrastructure, including KU’s teaching, research and referral hospital currently under construction, President Kenyatta said Kenyans will not need to travel abroad for specialised treatment.

He said the university’s referral hospital would have an ultra-modern oncology wing for cancer patients and modern facilities.

KU Vice-Chancellor Prof Olive Mugenda noted the hospital under construction, once completed, help  in provision of quality healthcare to Kenyans.

“This university will continue to offer both academic and healthcare to our children and those suffering from cancer,” said Prof Mugenda.

She appealed to the President to assist the university recover grabbed land.

Education Cabinet Secretary Jacob Kaimenyi said Kenyan students would no longer need to change currency if they decide to pursue their studies within the East African Community.