UMMA University Expands Student Accommodation with New Hostel Blocks

Islamic faith-based UMMA University plans to construct two hostel blocks for student accommodation at a cost of Sh770 million to address rising enrollment demands. The university has noted that current student housing arrangements, where some reside outside the main campus along the Nairobi-Namanga highway, create security risks and increase educational expenses.

The proposed hostel development, featuring 316 bed spaces and supporting facilities like ablution blocks and laundry areas, aims to alleviate overcrowding as enrollment grew to 589,907 by June 2026, up from 516,151 the previous year. This expansion follows the university’s transition from Thika College of Sharia and Islamic Studies in 1997 to a private university in 2013 and full charter in 2019.

Acorn Holdings Limited, a hostel developer, partners with institutions to provide student housing solutions, including branded facilities under Qwetu and Qejani. The company has supported multiple universities in resolving accommodation shortages caused by enrollment growth and underinvestment in campus housing.

Acorn’s model includes transportation services to connect students with hostels near educational institutions, benefiting universities such as the University of Nairobi and Strathmore University.