Kenya’s higher education has undergone tremendous transformation in the last two decades. From a handful of universities to tens of public and private institutions, the sector is poised for more expansion. Today, according to the Commission for University Education (CUE), Kenya has 23-Chartered Public Universities and 10 Public University Constituent Colleges. In addition, Kenya prides in 17 Private Chartered Universities, offering Diploma, Degree, Masters, and Doctorate programs. Because of this, cutthroat competition exists among universities. Each, working hard to outsmart the others. In the latest ranking by Webometrics, public universities dominate the scene. How does each fare? Here are top 10 universities in Kenya:
- The University of Nairobi-UoN
The University of Nairobi is the mother of all public and private universities in Kenya. Established in 1956, UoN, started as a technical college. By then, the Royal Technical College and later in 1970, the collage became the first university in Kenya. Since then, UoN, has maintained its pace, in setting standards. Today, under the leadership of Professor Peter Mbithi as the VC, UoN is the best in East Africa, position 6 in Africa, and 702 in the world.
- Kenyatta University-KU
The second is Kenyatta University. Better known as KU, the University was established in 1985. Unknown to many, KU was once a constituent college of UoN before becoming a fully fledged university. Today, KU is home to magnificent infrastructure including a postmodern Library, State of the art Administration block, Amphitheatre, and the recently opened Uni City Mall. Despite this, KU under Prof. Olive Mugenda (the outgoing VC), by far trails the University of Nairobi. If Webometrics ranking is anything to buy, then KU has to change its strategy. Kenyatta University is ranked 18 in Africa and 1925 in the world. KU also has a virtual campus.
- Moi University
Third on this list is Moi University. Located in Eldoret, the University provides a serene learning environment. Ranked position 2507 worldwide, the university was established in 1984 under Moi University Act of Parliament. In Africa, Moi University is position 31.
- Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT)
JKUAT is commonly known as Juja boys because of high concentration of male students in the facility. JKUAT started in 1981 as a middle level college. In 1994, the institution became gained full university status. JKUAT offers mainly engineering and agricultural courses. Continentally, JKUAT is position 38. On the global map, JKUAT comes at position 2866.
- Strathmore University
Strathmore is undoubtedly the best private chartered university in Kenya today. The university has a long standing record as a top business school. Strathmore was established in 1961 as an advanced-level sixth form college. Chartered in 2008, the university holds position 67 in Africa and 4934 in the world.
- Maseno University
Ranked the sixth in Kenya, Maseno University was established in 1991. In 2001, Maseno University became a self-sufficient university. Located in Maseno along the equator the university has reputable interest in research together with web existence. Today, it holds position 80 in Africa and 6271 in the world.
- African Virtual University
This African international organisation offers affordable distance learning in 154 African counties. Launched in 1997 as a World Bank project, African Virtual University has its headquarters in Nairobi Kenya and regional offices in Dakar Senegal. The African virtual university also trends as the leading pan African e-learning network with more than 53 partner institution in 24 countries. It is ranked 7228 in the world and 88 in Africa.
- Technical University of Kenya
Technical university of Kenya (TUK), formally known as Kenya Polytechnic offers technical training and man power in engineering and information technology. Located at the heart of Nairobi City, Technical university of Kenya has a long history as a technical institute. As a university, TUK started in 2007, and 2013, it was awarded a charter as a full university. Technical university of Kenya is position 8569 in the world and 107 in Africa.
- United States International University USIU-Africa
At position nine in USIU-Africa. Besides, USIU-Africa is the second best privately owned university. Established in 1970, USIU has produced quality and good professionals in their area of interest. Located in Nairobi, along the Thika Super Highway, the university trains both local and international students. The university is ranked 8696 worldwide and 110 in Africa.
- Catholic University Of Eastern Africa- CUEA
CUEA closes the list of top 10 universities in Kenya. Catholic university of eastern Africa was established in 1984 as a Graduate School of Theology. By then CUEA, which ranks 116 in Africa was known as the Catholic Higher Institute of Eastern Africa (CHIEA). The university is located in Lang’ata within Nairobi. Globally, CUEA is position 9010. The University was awarded its charter in 1992.
