Kakamega: The National Housing Corporation (NHC) has signed an agreement with Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) in Kakamega town to construct an ultramodern lecture hall complex at a cost of 90 million shillings. Under the agreement, NHC will use 100 percent Expanded Polystyrene System (EPS) Panels, a building technology that is cost-effective, durable, and environmentally-friendly, with the project set to be completed in a record four months.
According to Kenya News Agency, the project will consist of two lecture halls with a seating capacity of 100 students each, two lecture halls accommodating 140 students each, and two large lecturer halls capable of holding up to 450 students each. Additionally, the complex will include the construction of an ablution block to serve the university. The agreement was signed by NHC Board Chairman Yusuf Chanzu and MMUST Vice-Chancellor Prof Solomon Shibairo, with NHC Managing Director and CEO David Mathu among those witnessing the ceremony.
NHC Chairman Yusuf Chanzu highlighted the corporation’s broader mandate in supporting national development through quality infrastructure. He noted NHC’s successful implementation of several projects across the country using EPS technology, citing the Changamwe Infill Estate in Mombasa, Voi Infill in Taita Taveta, Olympic Estate in Nairobi, Langata Mixed-Use Development in Nairobi, and the recently completed Ithookwe Airstrip project in Kitui County. He added that some blocks at Siloam Hospital in Kericho are constructed using 100 percent EPS panels, demonstrating growing confidence in this innovative construction technology nationwide.
MMUST Vice-Chancellor Prof Solomon Shibairo welcomed the construction, noting that the new facility will enhance the learning environment and accommodate the university’s expanding academic programs and increasing number of learners. NHC Managing Director and CEO David Mathu stated that the adoption of EPS technology reflects NHC’s commitment to delivering modern, sustainable, and high-quality infrastructure solutions for public institutions across the country. He emphasized the importance of infrastructure development keeping pace with rising enrollment in public universities, declaring the project both timely and strategic.
The CEO assured that the project is expected to be completed within four months, ensuring the timely delivery of much-needed learning spaces for the university community. He confirmed to Prof. Vice-Chancellor that NHC will deliver the project within the agreed timeline. MMUST University currently enrolls over 20,000 students pursuing various courses.
