Laikipia University has been closed indefinitely after violent student unrest left several injured, prompting authorities to order an immediate evacuation of all students from campus.
The university administration announced the closure on Monday evening after protests escalated into clashes between students and security officers. Students had taken to the streets, barricading the Nyahururu-Nakuru road while protesting alleged poor management and lack of adequate student welfare services.
Anti-riot police were deployed to disperse the crowds after demonstrators refused to leave the roads. Running battles ensued, with officers using tear gas to contain the situation. Several students sustained injuries during the confrontation and are receiving treatment in nearby health facilities.
University officials said the decision to close the institution was made to safeguard lives and allow investigations into the unrest.
The protests were triggered by the death of a first-year student, Hillary Vulimu, who slipped and fell at the Subukia Escarpment last week. He later died while receiving treatment at Nyahururu County and Referral Hospital.
Students accused the university of failing to provide timely emergency medical assistance. They claimed efforts to access ambulance services were unsuccessful, alleging the ambulance was unavailable during the Eid al-Fitr holiday period.
The incident sparked widespread anger among the student body, with many blaming the administration for negligence and poor crisis response systems.
University management had scheduled a meeting with students earlier on Monday to address the concerns, but the meeting did not take place after students boycotted it and proceeded with demonstrations.
In a statement, Director for Corporate Affairs Roselyn Mulefu said the institution is working closely with relevant authorities to restore calm and review student welfare mechanisms.
She added that the university remains committed to strengthening engagement with students and improving emergency response systems.
Authorities have launched investigations into both the student’s death and the unrest as efforts continue to stabilize the situation.
