Nairobi: Investors and residents in Kangema constituency have been urged to seize the opportunity presented by the rapid growth of student population at the newly established KMTC Kangema Campus and the Michuki National Polytechnic in the area.
According to Kenya News Agency, during an investors forum convened by the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Kangema, area Member of Parliament Peter Kihungi encouraged investors and residents to build more hostels to accommodate the students from the KMTC Kangema Campus. The institution is experiencing fast growth in student enrollment, and the demand for affordable student housing is expected to increase with upcoming intakes.
Kihungi highlighted that the campus currently hosts close to 300 students, and with new government approval to offer diplomas in nursing and clinical medicine, the student population and the need for affordable housing are set to rise.
Additionally, Michuki National Polytechnic is projected to admit between 10,000 and 15,000 students in the next intake. This anticipated surge in student numbers will further strain the existing facilities and housing options, prompting Kihungi to urge swift action in the construction of more hostels.
He also encouraged local residents with vacant houses to consider converting them into hostels to offer students a safe and secure place to stay while generating income. Kihungi assured students of a safe learning environment by pledging cooperation with local leaders and security agencies.
The chair of the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) Murang'a Chapter, Dr. Naomi Kagone, also called on investors to collaborate in building hostels for students who currently reside far from their educational institutions. She emphasized the economic opportunities presented by the growth of these institutions, not only for property owners but also for local businesses catering to student needs.
Dr. Evelyn Nyamai, Principal of Kangema KMTC, noted that students will contribute to local hospitals, benefiting the community. She reiterated the need for investors to provide affordable and safe student housing in light of the introduction of new diploma courses in nursing and clinical medicine.
Nyamai expressed gratitude towards investors who are already providing accommodation, noting the absence of incidents so far. Additionally, she highlighted the mutual benefits to nearby hospitals from the services offered by the students.