Laikipia University Closed Indefinitely After Days of Student Protests

Laikipia University has been closed indefinitely after days of unrest by the students over the death of a colleague.

In a notice dated March 23, the Registrar, Prof. Robert Mwebi, said the decision was made during the 196th Special Senate Meeting of the University, held on March 23, 2026, at 1:30 p.m.

In the notice, students have been directed to leave the school premises immediately.

“The 196th Special Senate Meeting of the University, held on 23rd March, 2026, at 1:30 p.m., has resolved that the University be closed with immediate effect following student unrest, engagement with police, and the subsequent destruction of property along the Laikipia-Nyahururu Highway. Consequently, all students are required to vacate the University premises immediately,” reads part of the notice.

Prof. Mwebi said the University security personnel, in liaison with government security agencies, will supervise the evacuation process to ensure compliance.

Students who fail to comply with the notice will face disciplinary action.

Resumption of Academic Activities

Further, the Registrar said the institution will provide communication regarding the resumption of academic activities through the official channels.

“Any student who fails to comply with this directive will be subject to disciplinary action in accordance with University regulations,” the notice directed.

“Further communication regarding the resumption of academic activities and related administrative arrangements will be issued through official University channels in due course. Strict compliance with this directive is required.”

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Laikipia University Unrest

The unrest started on Saturday, March 21, when students blocked sections of the Nyahururu-Nakuru Highway after the death of a fellow student.

Hillary Vumilu, a first-year Media and Communication student, sustained injuries after being struck by a rock during a hiking trip at Subukia Viewpoint waterfalls on Friday, March 20.

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The students were demanding accountability for his death, questioning how the situation was handled.

The Institution said this led to protests, running battles with the police, closure of the Laikipia-Nyahururu Highway, and destruction of property.

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