Mr Kenyatta also appointed Prof Hellen Sambili as the first chancellor of the university.
Garissa University now becomes the 31st chartered public university.
Mr Kenyatta said granting thecharter was a triumph for the institution that suffered a terror attack two years ago.
President Uhuru Kenyatta today granted a charter to Garissa University, making the institution that was previously a constituent college of Moi University a fully-fledged university.
Mr Kenyatta also appointed Prof Hellen Sambili as the first chancellor of what will now be the 31st chartered public university in Kenya.
Speaking during a ceremony held at State House, Nairobi, Mr Kenyatta said granting of charter was a triumph for the institution that suffered a terror attack two years ago.
“Kenya will always triumph over those who preach hate, evil and destruction,” he said.
“I am confident that Garissa University now has the capacity to provide quality university education,” the President added.
'Avoid politics'
While delving into politics, Mr Kenyatta asked universities to resist attempts to politicise and balkanise higher learning institutions.
“Do your job and do not allow our institutions of higher learning to be politicised and tribalised,” Mr Kenyatta said as he directed universities to renew their commitment to national development, research and innovation.
He said he looked forward to seeing universities partnering with County Governments to solve problems affecting local residents.
“There is talent, skill and experience in the counties; our universities should tap into it,” he said.
Prof Sambili thanked the Head of State for appointing her the first chancellor of Garissa University and for awarding a charter to the institution.
The ceremony this morning was attended by leaders from the Northern Kenya region including Cabinet Secretary Adan Mohamed, Garissa Governor Ali Korane and National Assembly Majority leader Aden Duale among others.
