New milestone for Riara University as it is granted charter by President Ruto

President William Ruto has granted a charter to Riara University, officially accrediting it as a higher learning institution in Kenya.

The university's accreditation follows approval from the Commission for University Education (CUE), which had raised concerns about the legitimacy of institutions offering unrecognised degrees.

The event, held at State House, Nairobi and attended by various education stakeholders, represents a major milestone for both the university and Kenya's higher education system.

"The award marks a truly crowning achievement for the founders and leadership of this institution, whose commitments to consistent investment to raise the standard of private education in Kenya is well documented,” Ruto said during the event.

The President stated that the event marked another significant step in the country's efforts to improve the quality of education and expand access to higher learning.

Address innovation gaps

He emphasised that strengthening the university sector's capacity would help meet the development needs of an ambitious population, manage the challenges of a globalised economy and address innovation gaps in the nation and region.

"We are here to reaffirm our understanding and remind the world of the indispensable role of education as the key to prosperity in the sense that it is the foundation upon which we build a strong, dynamic, resilient, secure and innovative society," said the head of state.

Ruto also highlighted the critical importance of education as a cornerstone for freedom, democracy, justice and the rule of law.

Reflecting on the progress of higher education, President Ruto pointed out that in 1970, Kenya had only two universities, one public and one private—serving about 3,000 students.

"Today, we have a total of 79 universities with over 570,000 students, 150,000 of whom attend private universities," Ruto said.

With the award of the charter, Riara University has now been officially recognised, assuring current and prospective students that their qualifications will hold value.

This achievement comes just days after the CUE flagged 15 universities, including Riara, for operating without proper accreditation.

The commission had warned students that degrees from these institutions would not be recognised, raising concerns about the legitimacy of qualifications.

CUE Chief Executive Officer Mike Kuria had urged students to exercise caution when selecting universities and ensure they enrol only in institutions that meet the legal requirements.

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"Any institution operating as a university or degree-awarding entity without our approval is illegal," he said.