Kenyan varsity reopens 9 months after terrorist attack

olamide oni

January 5, 2016 11:50 AM

The attack on the institution on April 2, 2015 was the deadliest yet in Kenya by the Somali-based, Al-Qaeda-linked Islamist group.

Kenya's Garissa University College has officially reopened 9 months after a deadly attack by the al-Shabab militant group which left 150 dead, mostly students.

BBC reports that the school staff has resumed work and students are expected to return to campus on January 11.

University principal Ahmed Osman Warfa said most of the staff had reported for duty ahead of the new term, and that around 60 students were expected to return on January 11.

Warfa said security had been improved with a new police post built within the university compound and a perimeter fence planned.

READ: 2 Garissa colleges remain shut as Kenya prepares against al-Shabaab terror threat

"I wish I was armed and trained on the use of firearms on that night, I would have fought with the attackers and at least ensure I have saved some of my students from their killers," said the principal ahead of the reopening.

MediamaxNetwork reports that following an attack, there was a massive exodus of teaching staff and non-locals from Mandera and Wajir counties. The incident saw indefinite closure of the university by then Education secretary Jacob Kaimenyi .

Survivors of the attack, were transferred to Moi University in Eldoret to continue with their studies. Re-opening of the institution is seen as a sign of determination and resilience by Kenyans in the fight against terrorism.

The move comes after much consultations and the call by residents who moved to court in an effort to compel the government to take measures to resume operations at the institution saying their children were missing out on education following its closure.

olamide oni