Several students have been injured following a frightening incident at the University of Kabianga after part of a lecture theatre ceiling structure gave way, triggering panic and a stampede during ongoing lectures.
The university has confirmed that the injured students are receiving treatment at Kericho County Referral Hospital, although the exact number of casualties has not been disclosed.
Panic After Ceiling Debris Falls
According to Vice Chancellor Prof Eric Koech, the incident occurred when part of the finishing material from an upper floor slab dislodged and fell onto the third-floor lecture area of the four-storey building.
The unexpected incident caused immediate panic among students who feared the structure was collapsing.
Sources within the institution said the falling debris led to chaos inside the lecture theatre as students rushed toward exits in a bid to escape the building.
Stampede and Injuries
During the rush, some students reportedly jumped from the third floor and other lower levels in an attempt to escape the perceived danger. This resulted in multiple injuries, including fractures and trauma-related complications.
Emergency response teams and university officials later evacuated those affected and transported them to nearby medical facilities within Kericho County.
Hospitalization and Response
The injured students were admitted to Kericho County Referral Hospital and other health facilities for urgent medical attention. Hospital sources indicate that some victims sustained serious injuries, though none of the cases have been officially classified as fatal.
Vice Chancellor Prof Eric Koech assured the public that the institution is closely monitoring the situation and cooperating with relevant authorities to determine the cause of the incident and ensure student safety.
Safety Concerns Raised
The incident has raised concerns over structural safety and maintenance standards in university facilities, with calls expected for a thorough inspection of the affected building.
Authorities are expected to launch an investigation into the cause of the slab failure and assess whether there were any construction or maintenance lapses.
As investigations continue, students and parents have been urged to remain calm while the institution works to ensure the safety of all learners on campus.
