Egerton University Vice Chancellor Prof Rose Mwonya on Monday defended the institution's decision to fine each student Sh16,862 in damage fees.

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This follows student unrest at the institution in December last year.

The VC said that the damage caused by the students was extensive and left the varsity in bad shape.

“All the due process including procurement, security, importation charges for the reagents, chemicals, labour, taxes, disposal of non and hazardous materials, treatment and compensation to staff and livestock were considered before arriving at the cost per student,” said Prof Mwonya.

She noted that during the riot, students set fire to several buildings including hostels and destroyed the student centre, administration block including the registrars officers among others. 

She, however, appealed to all guardians and sponsors to disown social media propaganda indicating that the university is using last year's student riot to make money.

“I would like to inform the parents and sponsors the Sh16,862 will go towards repairing the damages contrary to misreporting and misrepresentation of facts by social media that the university was out to make money out of the unrest by overcharging the students."

“Destruction of iconic and invaluable building equipment and teaching resources, some of which are sentimental and treasured by the Egerton University community and its alumni like the Holland hall were also damaged,” she added.