President William Ruto has announced that the government will allocate Ksh.2 billion in the next financial year to settle part of the debt owed to Methodist University.
Commitment to Higher Education
Speaking at State House, Nairobi, on Friday while hosting leaders from the Methodist Church in Kenya, the President acknowledged the financial strain the institution has faced due to unpaid government obligations.
“As Government, we sent students to you; you taught them, but we did not pay you. But we will pay you. I will look for at least Ksh.2 billion by June,” Ruto said.
Present at the meeting were Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Presiding Bishop John Maromba, Emeritus Presiding Bishop Joseph Ntombura, and other church leaders.
The President revealed that the government owes public and private universities more than Ksh.120 billion, but assured that the debts would be settled progressively. He noted that the new student-centred funding model has stabilized public universities, saving 21 of them from bankruptcy.
Infrastructure Commitments
Ruto also highlighted ongoing infrastructure projects, including:
- Completion of design work for the Ksh.7 billion Nithi Bridge, with construction now underway.
- Plans to dual the Makutano-Embu-Meru-Maua road by year-end to ease traffic congestion.
- The proposed National Infrastructure Fund, aimed at raising Ksh.5 trillion for highways, airports, railways, and mega dams.
“By April, we will have half of the money we require for these projects,” he said.
Support for Church Initiatives
The President pledged government support for the church’s property in Nairobi and Mombasa that has been invaded by squatters, promising compensation. He also committed to equipping Mau Methodist Hospital with oncology equipment, to be financed through the Social Health Authority (SHA).
“Let us have a strategic relationship so that we can help you where we can, and you as the Church can help us,” Ruto remarked.
Church-Government Partnership
Deputy President Kindiki praised the Methodist Church for its values of hard work and saving culture, rooted in Wesleyan doctrine.
Presiding Bishop Maromba reaffirmed the church’s partnership with the government in development, peace, and justice:
“We will partner with you on matters of peace and justice. Today, we renew our covenant of cooperation with your government.”
President Ruto also urged the church to help in combating drug abuse among the youth, stressing the importance of moral and spiritual guidance alongside state interventions.
Conclusion
The announcement underscores the government’s commitment to addressing university debts while strengthening partnerships with religious institutions. By combining financial support, infrastructure development, and social collaboration, Ruto’s administration aims to advance both national growth and community well-being.
