Laikipia University has announced an indefinite closure following student unrest that escalated into clashes with police and destruction of property.
In a statement issued on Monday, March 23, the institution noted that the decision was reached during a special Senate sitting held earlier in the afternoon.
The university indicated that the closure took immediate effect after protests turned violent, leading to confrontations with law enforcement and damage to property along the Laikipia–Nyahururu Highway.
Laikipia University Shuts Down Following Violent Demonstrations and Vandalism. Photo: Courtesy.
Students have been instructed to vacate the campus immediately, with the evacuation process being overseen by university security personnel in coordination with government security agencies to ensure compliance.
The administration cautioned that any student who fails to comply with the directive will face disciplinary action in line with the university’s rules and regulations.
Students have been advised to await official communication on the reopening of the institution and the resumption of academic activities.
The university noted that further updates on academic programs and administrative arrangements will be shared through its official communication channels in due course.
This comes after the announcement of the death of a first-year student following a hiking accident in Nyandarua County.
The student, Hillary Vulimu, who was pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Media, died after being struck by a rock at Subukia View Point during a hike with fellow students.
According to the university, he was rushed to a nearby health facility for first aid before being referred to Nyahururu County Referral Hospital for advanced treatment, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
University officials, including the Dean of Students, stepped in to support the family and affected students while coordinating arrangements at the hospital.
The university expressed deep sorrow over the loss and called on students and the wider community to unite in mourning while supporting the bereaved family.
It also issued a safety advisory urging students to avoid potentially dangerous areas, particularly during the rainy season, and emphasized the need for sensitivity when sharing or discussing content related to the incident.
