The Rebirth of Garissa University After 2015 Al-Shabaab Attack.
On April 2, 2015, al-Shabaab militants launched an attack on Garissa University, taking numerous students hostage and singling out some for execution.
The tragic event resulted in the deaths of 148 students, leaving 79 others seriously injured, some permanently paralyzed.
The attack sent shockwaves worldwide, traumatizing the university community, as well as the friends and families of the victims.
At the university, a commemorative plaque honors the victims, bearing the inscription, “This monument was constructed in memory of 148 souls massacred in cold blood.
Verily, the power of education will never be silenced even by the deadliest gun.” This sentiment reflects the institution’s resilience in the face of such a horrific event, as it continues to pursue educational goals.
University’s Recovery and Growth
Garissa University was deeply affected by the attack, with student enrollment plummeting. By 2016, the university had only 388 students, as many Kenyans avoided the institution.
However, nearly a decade later, Garissa University has made significant progress. In September 2024, the university saw an intake of 900 students, the highest in its history.
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The total student population had grown to 5,242 by the end of 2024. Academic Registrar Aden Abdi remarked that the expansion has been notable, particularly after 2021 when the institution recorded 1,542 students.
This increase is attributed to the growing demand for higher education and improved security in Garissa town.
To accommodate the rising student population, a new hostel with a capacity of 900 students has been constructed, along with an ongoing tuition complex.
Security Measures and Student Experience
Enhanced security measures have been key to the university’s resurgence. Security checks at the university’s main gate are stringent, with guards inspecting every vehicle and denying entry to individuals without proper identification.
A police station has also been set up on campus, adding to the safety of students and staff.
Garissa University Vice-Chancellor Ahmed Osman Warfa emphasized the importance of personal responsibility in security during the orientation of First-Year students.
He advised them to stay indoors between 6 pm and 6 am and to remain alert when outside the university premises.
He assured them that security measures had been strengthened to prevent a repeat of the 2015 tragedy.
Student Sentiments
Many students feel safe and are optimistic about their future at Garissa University. For instance, Teresiah Mumbua, from Machakos County, expressed initial doubts upon being placed at Garissa University but is now comfortable at the institution.
Similarly, Bridget Kwamboka from Nyamira County looks forward to studying in a peaceful environment, while Abdikadir Sabdow Farah from Mandera chose Garissa as his university of choice, driven by his desire to address the teacher shortage in northern Kenya.
Other students like Nasra Hassan Abdi, also pursuing education, are proud to be part of the university’s community.
Third-Year student Veronica Mwinzi shared her positive experience, noting that her time at Garissa University has been transformative.
She highlighted the inclusive environment and her involvement in co-curricular activities, which have helped her develop leadership skills and broaden her network.
Educational Challenges and Academic Expansion
Despite the challenges facing the region, Garissa University remains committed to transforming lives through education.
Dr. Aden, the university’s academic registrar, emphasized that the institution offers more than 50 academic programs across three schools and the Institute for Peace and Security Studies.
Courses in the School of Pure and Applied Sciences, such as a Master of Science in Dryland Environment and Natural Resources and Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Public Health, and Information Technology, focus on addressing environmental and health challenges in the region.
The university also plays a critical role in promoting peace and stability in northern Kenya through its Institute for Peace and Security Studies.
It offers programs like a Ph.D. in Peace, Security, and Conflict Management, along with a Master’s in Refugee and Migration Studies, aimed at addressing conflict and managing displaced populations.
Compensation for Attack Victims
In September 2024, the High Court ordered the government to compensate students injured in the 2015 attack and the families of those killed.
The court ruled that the government had failed to prevent the attack despite evidence of an imminent threat.
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Compensation ranged from Sh1.2 million to Sh20 million for the injured students, depending on the severity of their injuries, while the families of those who lost their lives were awarded Sh3 million each. The case was filed by Kituo Cha Sheria on behalf of the victims and their families.
The Rebirth of Garissa University After 2015 Al-Shabaab Attack.
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