Ruto Awards Charter to Bomet University, Pledges Boost in Research and Innovation Funding

By : Mweru Mbugua 

President William Ruto has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening research, innovation, and Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education as key drivers of Kenya’s economic transformation

Speaking at State House, Nairobi, on Wednesday during the award of a charter to Bomet University, President Ruto said the establishment of a dedicated State Department for Science, Research, and Innovation demonstrates the government’s resolve to scale up STEM training, strengthen research, and translate ideas into viable enterprises

The President announced plans to increase funding for the National Research Fund from the current 0.8 per cent to 2 per cent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), a move expected to build a long-term research and innovation base valued at Ksh.1 trillion over the next decade

“This is not only about laboratories and publications; it is also about financing start-ups, commercialising innovation, and building a generation of scientists, engineers, and creators who will power the country’s next wave of economic transformation,” President Ruto said

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With the award of the charter, Bomet University becomes the 36th public university in Kenya. The President noted that the country now has 83 universities serving nearly 630,000 students, underscoring the government’s commitment to expanding access to quality higher education

He added that the expansion aligns with the national goal of ensuring every qualified Kenyan has a fair opportunity to pursue university education and acquire skills relevant to the modern economy

President Ruto also highlighted ongoing education reforms aimed at reshaping higher education through fairness, accountability, and improved student outcomes