West Pokot Governor Simon Kachapin has taken a major step toward transforming higher education in the region after appointing a special task force to oversee the establishment of a constituent university in the county.
In a gazette notice dated October 24, 2025, Governor Kachapin confirmed that the newly formed team will serve for 90 days to lay the groundwork for what is expected to become West Pokot’s first-ever public university.
A constituent university operates under the charter of a parent institution, offering degree programs and conducting academic work under the supervision of the main university.
Governor Kachapin noted that the task force will be responsible for conducting feasibility studies, engaging the Ministry of Education, partner universities, development agencies, and local communities to ensure the project’s successful rollout.
“In exercise of the powers conferred by Article 179 (1) and (4) of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, and Section 30 (2) and (3) of the County Governments Act, 2012, I appoint the following persons to serve in the Task Force on the Establishment of a Constituent University in West Pokot County for a period of ninety (90) days, effective October 21, 2025,” stated Governor Kachapin in the notice.
The task force will be chaired by Joshua Kwonyike, while Rebecca Kide, the County Executive Committee Member for Education and Technical Training, will serve as the secretary.
Other members include Julius Koring’ura, Elly Yaluk, Grace Amurle, Raymond Nyeris, Brian Mnangat Ptoton, Simon Tinga, Lydia Maket, Musaeh Akuto Kamarkor, Philip Sitte, Philomena Chenang’at, Fred Pown Achoke, Philip Magal (County Solicitor), and Philip Pkorir Puyaka.
The team will identify suitable sites and facilities for the institution, draft a concept paper, and prepare a detailed proposal to guide the university’s affiliation and establishment process.
Once their work is complete, the task force is expected to submit a comprehensive final report to the governor within 90 days, paving the way for the official launch of the university next year.
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