Salient Secondary School in Ol Kalou, Nyandarua County, is set to be officially closed to pave the way for the establishment of Nyandarua University, the county’s first-ever institution of higher learning.
Governor Kiarie Moses Badilisha confirmed the development during a community engagement forum, following overwhelming support from residents during a public participation exercise organized by the county government. The 400 students currently enrolled at Salient Secondary School will be transferred to nearby institutions, with the National Government Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF) set to support the construction of additional classrooms to accommodate them.
“This is a historic milestone for the people of Nyandarua,” Governor Badilisha said. “We found it wise to consult the public, and residents unanimously agreed to close the school to establish a university. For the first time, we will have our own institution right here in the county.”
Nyandarua, which has long been the only county in the Mt. Kenya region without a university, is partnering with the University of Nairobi to launch Nyandarua University as a constituent college. The university’s first intake, scheduled for September 2025, will admit 600 students—300 at the current Salient grounds and another 300 at the renovated Ol Jororok Agricultural Training Center.
The university will initially offer degree programs in Agriculture, Business Administration, and Education. Governor Badilisha assured that local students would be prioritized during admissions and emphasized the university’s role in bringing quality education closer to home.
University of Nairobi Deputy Vice-Chancellor Prof. John Mande confirmed that the institution is on track for launch, with the first students reporting by August 18. A principal has already been appointed, and preparations are underway to recruit deans and department heads.
Prof. John Kimenju, the newly appointed principal of Nyandarua University College, highlighted the institution’s focus on research and development, particularly in agriculture. “We will study the use of chemicals and pesticides in Nyandarua’s potato farming and promote safer, more sustainable practices,” he said. “Universities should drive knowledge, and knowledge must serve the people.”
Construction of the main campus at Kapten, Ol Kalou, has also begun on a 50-acre plot within the former Salient Secondary School grounds, with joint funding from the national and county governments.
Senator John Methu and Ol Kalou MP David Kiaraho appealed to residents to support the transition and avoid politicizing the school’s closure. “We have planned well for the displaced students. Let’s focus on the greater good,” Senator Methu said.
The university’s establishment is expected to transform Nyandarua into a hub for academic excellence and agricultural innovation. As one of Kenya’s most agriculturally productive counties, Nyandarua stands to benefit immensely through enhanced research, skills development, and value addition in farming.
With this bold step, the county takes a significant leap toward inclusive growth, educational empowerment, and sustainable rural development.
Written By Rodney Mbua
