Umma University is a private university located in Kajiado County, Kenya. Established in 1997 as Thika College, it gained university status in 2007. It is the first accredited Islamic institution of higher education in Kenya, offering a blend of conventional academic disciplines with Islamic studies, guided by Islamic values and principles.
History
Umma University began its journey in 1997 as Thika College, initially providing diploma and certificate courses. Recognizing the need for a higher education institution that integrated contemporary knowledge with Islamic teachings, the college pursued accreditation as a university. In 2007, it was granted a Letter of Interim Authority by the Commission for University Education (CUE) in Kenya, officially becoming Umma University. Its full charter was awarded later, solidifying its status as a fully recognized university in Kenya.
Campuses
The university operates with several campuses:
- Main Campus: Located in Kajiado, Kajiado County, serving as the primary administrative and academic hub.
- Thika Campus: Situated in Thika, Kiambu County, which was the original site of Thika College.
- Garissa Campus: Located in Garissa County, expanding its reach to cater to students in the northeastern region of Kenya.
Academics
Umma University offers a range of academic programs at diploma, undergraduate (bachelor's), and postgraduate levels. Its curriculum is designed to integrate Islamic ethical and moral frameworks across various disciplines. The university is structured into several faculties and schools, including:
- Faculty of Islamic Studies and Sharia: Focuses on Islamic law, theology, Quranic studies, and Arabic language.
- Faculty of Business and Management Studies: Offers programs in business administration, finance, accounting, and human resource management.
- Faculty of Computing and Information Technology: Provides courses in computer science, information technology, and related fields.
- Faculty of Education: Trains educators, incorporating pedagogical methods with Islamic values.
- Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences: Covers subjects like sociology, psychology, and communication studies.
Mission and Vision
Umma University's mission is to provide quality university education rooted in Islamic values, aimed at producing competent, morally upright, and socially responsible graduates who can contribute positively to national and global development. Its vision is to be a leading center of excellence in integrated knowledge and research for societal transformation.
Accreditation and Affiliation
Umma University is fully accredited by the Commission for University Education (CUE) in Kenya, which is the regulatory body for university education in the country. This accreditation ensures that its programs meet national and international quality standards. As an Islamic institution, it also maintains affiliations with various Islamic educational bodies and networks globally.