Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology’s Butula Centre on 20th November, 2020, simultaneously hosted the University managers for the ground breaking of a library and signed the renewal of the memorandum of understanding (MOU) that was first signed on Friday 20th November, 2015. This is a great milestone in the journey of the centre towards becoming an Institution of Education, Research and Development. The MOU involved MMUST, Butula Centre, National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) and the County Government of Busia. The MOU signing, which was guided by the Directorate of International Relations and Linkages (DIAL), is expected to steer up development in the institution both academically and in terms of infrastructure.
The event was graced by the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor Administration and Finance (DVC A&F), Prof. Charles Mutai who represented Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo as well as Acting Deputy vice Chancellor Planning and Innovations Prof. Judith Achoka. Speaking during the event, Prof Mutai expressed his gratitude to the initiators of the project, applauding their efforts of ensuring education is brought to the Marachi community in Busia County. Prof. Mutai, further noted that the project would not only benefit the community around but also the County at large. “I would like to assure you of our support to see this institution become a University in future, all we ask for is the support from the community which will enable the progression of this project we have started,” reiterated Prof. Mutai.
The Minister, Vocational Education, Busia County, Prof. G. Opata highlighted various activities the County had put in place for the project including; improving lighting in the institution, sponsoring of students, ensuring hybrid water storage and funding of the construction projects currently underway. The centre is currently putting up male students’ hostels as well as the dining hall construction which expected to start soon.
The great minds behind the idea of this project were Prof. John Shiundu and Prof. Christine Mango. Prof. Shiundu is a Professor of Education at MMUST while Prof. Mango is the Chairperson of the Board. Prof. Mango encouraged teamwork among the parties involved to ensure the growth of the institution to become the leading Technical and Vocational Education Training centre in the region. The Director, Privately Sponsored Students Programmes (PSSP), Mr. Dishon Wanjere stated that there is a lot of goodwill and commitment from both parties, a fact that will certainly result in great achievements for all the partners in the project.
The event was also attended by Prof. Florence Idende, Busia’s Deputy County Commissioner Pamela Otieno, Dr. George Ombakho, the Director Corporate Communications and Marketing (DCCM), Dr. Lydia Anyonje, the Coordinator of Butula Center, Eng. Enock Omondi, Dr. Ogutu, and MMUST’S Assets’ officer, Ms. Tabitha Shisia.
Prof. Charles Mutai leading the ground breaking for the Library construction
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